The administration of United States President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday, August 5th, 2026, that it will offer up to $102 million in rewards for information leading to the arrest or conviction of leaders from the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), a criminal organization based in Mexico.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche described the move as "a continuation of our efforts to eliminate cartels that have plagued" the US for "far too long." He emphasized that these sophisticated organizations use violence and fear to control the importation of deadly narcotics into the United States, including fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine, spreading violence and death to American communities.

CJNG operates in 21 of Mexico’s 32 states and is involved in activities ranging from avocado production to drug smuggling. Alongside the reward announcement, the US State Department and Justice Department imposed visa restrictions on 65 individuals accused of having business or family ties with cartel members.

Recent related violence includes a raid targeting a Sinaloa cartel leader, in which Mexican military officials reported 11 deaths. Additionally, at least 73 people, including cartel members and security forces, died during another raid.

This announcement reflects the US government's ongoing strategy to weaken high-profile Mexican cartels through financial incentives and diplomatic measures.

Sources