News Release DEA: Mexico Marks another Success against Drug Cartels JAN 13 - DEA Acting Administrator Michele M. Leonhart congratulated the Government of Mexico on the capture of Eduardo Teodoro “El Teo” Garcia Simental, one of the world’s most violent and brutal drug traffickers. “Today another Mexican cartel leader was taken off the street and is no longer able to carry out his bloody turf war. This arrest is one more demonstration of the growing capacity of the Government of Mexico to bring major drug traffickers to justice,” said DEA Acting Administrator Michele M. Leonhart. “This was not an isolated event: it exemplifies the growing effectiveness of our information sharing with the Calderon Administration, and our continued commitment to defeat the drug traffickers who have plagued both our nations.” In addition, U.S. Ambassador Carlos Pascual congratulated the Calderon Administration, SSP Secretary Garcia Luna, and other federal and Baja California State authorities on the capture. Since his break in 2008 with the Arellano Felix organization, Garcia Simental was responsible for many of the kidnappings and murders in Tijuana over the past two years. “This latest arrest again demonstrates that cooperation between Mexico and the United States is producing results. Mexico’s operational capacity is growing. We continue to improve our sharing of information. The Mexican government is unrelenting in its determination and commitment, Ambassador Pascual said.” “El Teo” is under indictment in Mexico on five counts, including drug trafficking, racketeering, and homicide. He also could face other charges in the United States. Following last December’s operation against the Beltran Leyva organization, this action underscores that these criminal syndicates are not beyond the reach of Mexican justice. |