U.S. Targets Drug Cartel Leader – Arrest Reward Offered
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$5 Million Reward Offered for Sinaloa Cartel Leader José María Ponce Félix
the U.S. Department of State is offering a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to the arrest or conviction of José María Ponce Félix, a high-ranking leader of the Sinaloa Cartel. The declaration, made on September 16, 2025, comes as part of a broader effort to dismantle the powerful drug trafficking organization.
Ponce Félix currently leads a faction of the Sinaloa Cartel known as Los Rusos. Prior to assuming this leadership role, in 2012, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) alleges he worked alongside Ismael Zambada García, also known as “El Mayo” zambada, directing a “fleet of cartel soldiers” involved in violent crimes. these crimes included kidnappings, hostage takings, torture, and murder, according to the DEA press release.
Ponce Félix faces four separate indictments across two California districts, indicating a sustained legal pursuit. The State Department’s reward offer is intended to encourage individuals with information about his whereabouts or activities to come forward.
“For years,Ponce Felix has resorted to kidnapping,torture and murder to maintain his grip on power,” stated DEA Administrator Terrance Cole in the official announcement.
“This reward underscores this administration’s whole-of-government approach and unwavering commitment to destroy the Sinaloa Cartel.”
Recent DEA Operations Targeting the Sinaloa Cartel
The reward announcement follows a four-day domestic operation conducted by the DEA from August 25 to 29, 2025. This operation specifically targeted the Sinaloa Cartel and resulted in 617 arrests. Law enforcement officials seized a important amount of drugs, 420 firearms, and over $11 million in U.S. currency during the operation.
| Operation Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Arrests | 617 |
| Firearms Seized | 420 |
| U.S. Currency Seized | $11,000,000+ |
Background: The Sinaloa Cartel and Los Rusos
The Sinaloa Cartel is one of the most powerful and prolific drug trafficking organizations in the world, responsible for a significant portion of the illegal drugs entering the United States. The cartel’s operations extend beyond drug trafficking to include violence, money laundering, and corruption.
Los Rusos, the faction led by Ponce Félix, is a key component within the larger Sinaloa Cartel structure. The group is known for its ruthless tactics and control over specific territories