Federal authorities have arrested Eugenio Dario Molina-Lopez, a 61-year-old Guatemalan national accused of leading one of Central America’s most powerful drug trafficking organizations.
Molina-Lopez is suspected of heading Los Huistas, a transnational criminal organization based in Guatemala’s Huehuetenango region, near the Mexican border.
The arrest follows a multi-year investigation led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the U.S.
SAN DIEGO — U.S. Federal authorities have arrested Eugenio Dario Molina-Lopez, a 61-year-old Guatemalan national accused of leading one of Central America’s most powerful drug trafficking organizations. Molina-Lopez, also known as “Don Dario,” was taken into custody in San Diego on April 24, 2026, and faces charges related to the large-scale distribution of cocaine intended for the U.S. Market.
Alleged Leader of Los Huistas Cartel
Molina-Lopez is suspected of heading Los Huistas, a transnational criminal organization based in Guatemala’s Huehuetenango region, near the Mexican border. According to U.S. Prosecutors, the group operates a massive cocaine trafficking network, transporting drugs from South America to Mexican cartels for eventual distribution in the United States.
Lopez Mexican Attorney
The arrest follows a multi-year investigation led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California, dubbed Operation Guerrilla Unit. The probe targeted Molina-Lopez, his organization, and its suppliers, involving law enforcement agencies across multiple countries and federal districts.
Federal Charges and Reward Program
Molina-Lopez was indicted on January 29, 2019, on two counts: conspiracy to distribute cocaine intended for unlawful importation into the U.S. And conspiracy to distribute cocaine on board a vessel. He pleaded not guilty during his initial court appearance in San Diego on April 24, 2026.
In March 2022, the U.S. Department of State offered a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to his arrest or conviction under the Narcotics Rewards Program (NRP). The program, established in 1986, has facilitated the capture of more than 75 transnational criminals and major narcotics traffickers, with over $135 million paid in rewards to date.
Prosecutors’ Response
“Cartel leaders don’t get to write the end of their stories — we do. And once again, the final chapter for a man alleged to be one of the world’s most notorious and prolific cocaine traffickers is here in the Southern District of California.”
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U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon
The statement reflects the significance of Molina-Lopez’s arrest, which U.S. Officials describe as a major blow to transnational drug trafficking networks operating in Central America.
Regional Impact of Los Huistas
Los Huistas has long been identified as a key player in the cocaine trade, leveraging Guatemala’s strategic location between South American production hubs and Mexican distribution networks. The group’s operations in Huehuetenango, a region bordering Mexico, have made it a critical link in the supply chain for U.S.-bound narcotics.
The arrest comes amid broader efforts by U.S. And Guatemalan authorities to dismantle drug trafficking organizations with ties to Mexican cartels. While Molina-Lopez’s capture is a high-profile success, prosecutors acknowledge that the broader fight against transnational crime remains ongoing.
Next Steps in the Case
Molina-Lopez remains in federal custody pending further legal proceedings. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California, with support from HSI and other federal agencies. No trial date has been set.
For now, the arrest marks a significant milestone in the U.S. Government’s efforts to disrupt cocaine trafficking routes originating in Central America. However, the long-term impact on Los Huistas’ operations and the broader drug trade in the region remains to be seen.
