US Drone Operations Aid Arrests of Cartel Leaders in Mexico

U.S. drone surveillance operations have played a crucial role in the arrests of key cartel leaders in Mexico, including members of the Sinaloa cartel. The unarmed MQ-9 Reaper drones, operated at the request of the Mexican government, have been in use for over two decades, assisting in intelligence gathering against drug trafficking organizations. Recent operations resulted in the capture of 'Wero Bryan,' presumed leader of the Chapitos, and Kevin Alonso, the security chief for Iván Archibaldo Guzmán. These efforts have intensified amid a joint offensive against the cartels by the Trump and Sheinbaum administrations. Mexican officials confirmed that while U.S. drones aid intelligence, American personnel do not participate in arrests, ensuring operations respect Mexican sovereignty. The collaboration highlights a significant advancement in the use of drone technology for counter-narcotics efforts, despite ongoing scrutiny over U.S. surveillance in Mexican airspace.