A large-scale transfer of inmates from the Altiplano federal maximum-security prison in the State of Mexico to the United States took place on Monday, January 20, 2026. Thirty-seven prisoners were moved in what authorities are calling the third mass extradition to the U.S.
Mass Extradition to the U.S.
According to information released by the Security Cabinet, the transfer occurred Tuesday morning. The 37 individuals are described as “operators of criminal organizations that represented a real threat to the country’s security.” The action was carried out in accordance with the National Security Law and through bilateral cooperation mechanisms, with assurances of “full respect for national sovereignty.”
Federal authorities confirmed the U.S. Department of Justice requested the extraditions and have committed to not seeking the death penalty for those transferred. The prisoners were transported to Washington, Houston, New York, Pennsylvania, San Antonio, and San Diego via seven aircraft belonging to the Armed Forces.
This latest transfer brings the total number of high-impact criminals sent to the United States during the current administration to 92. Authorities state these individuals are now unable to contribute to violence within the country.
Previous Extraditions
The first mass extradition occurred on February 27, 2025, and included former leaders of the Los Zetas cartel, brothers Miguel Ángel and Omar Trevino Morales, as well as Antonio Oseguera Cervantes, brother of the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Vicente Carrillo Fuentes, formerly of the Juárez Cartel, and José Ángel Canobbio Inzunza, alias ‘El Güerito,’ associated with the ‘Los Chapitos’ faction of the Sinaloa Cartel, were also included.
A second transfer took place on August 12, 2025, involving 26 prisoners, including individuals known as “La Tuta” and “Z40.”
Authorities have indicated that five of the recently transferred prisoners are considered priority targets.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many prisoners have been extradited to the U.S. during this administration?
A total of 92 criminals considered to have a high impact have been sent to the United States.
Was the death penalty a concern in these extraditions?
The U.S. Department of Justice committed to not seeking the death penalty for the extradited prisoners.
Where were the prisoners transported within the United States?
The prisoners were transported to Washington, Houston, New York, Pennsylvania, San Antonio, and San Diego.
It is possible that further extraditions could occur as the administration continues to pursue its strategy of collaborating with the U.S. to combat criminal organizations. Analysts expect that future transfers may depend on ongoing negotiations and legal proceedings. The long-term effects of these extraditions on the structure and activities of criminal groups in Mexico remain to be seen.
