U.S. authorities charged four alleged Jalisco New Generation Cartel members on Tuesday over an attempted heavy weapons deal in the Czech Republic.
Czech authorities arrested the four men in June at Washington's request. Two suspects have been extradited to the United States, while the other two face extradition soon, according to U.S. Department of Justice officials.
All four suspects face criminal charges including drug trafficking and weapons trafficking. If convicted, each suspect faces up to life imprisonment.
Weapons and Drug Swap Allegations
Two of the men allegedly sought to acquire automatic rifles, grenade launchers and mortars in the Czech Republic, according to a Department of Justice statement. The statement said the weapons were intended to commit violent crimes in Mexico against rival cartels, citizens, police officers and military personnel.
In exchange for the military weapons, the suspects offered fentanyl or methamphetamine that had been imported into the United States. Federal prosecutors did not disclose the identities of the prospective arms suppliers involved in the alleged deal.
Sanctions and High Bounties
The action follows charges filed last week against senior executives of the cartel, alongside reward offers of up to $100 million for information leading to the arrest of the group's leaders.
U.S. officials state that the Jalisco New Generation Cartel operates a global network trafficking fentanyl, cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine. The administration of President Donald Trump has designated the group an international terrorist organization.
