US offers millions in rewards for top CJNG cartel leaders

The U.S. government has announced substantial rewards, totaling over $100 million USD, for information leading to the capture or conviction of eight key leaders of the notorious Mexican drug cartel, Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG).

This significant financial incentive is part of a broader U.S. effort to "track, degrade, and dismantle" the cartel, which the U.S. Department of State has labeled one of the most violent drug-terror organizations. The announcement was made via X by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

The largest single reward, $25 million, is designated for information concerning Juan Carlos Valencia González, also known as "Pelón." Valencia González, believed to be the cartel's new leader, is approximately 41 years old and holds dual Mexican and U.S. citizenship. He is the son of Rosalinda González, the ex-wife of former CJNG leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias "El Mencho," who was killed during a military operation in February. His death triggered a wave of violence across Mexico, resulting in at least 74 fatalities.

In addition to the monetary rewards, the U.S. has implemented visa restrictions against 65 individuals associated with the CJNG. These restrictions affect family members and business partners, marking what the State Department described as a "historic and decisive measure" against the cartel's operations.