The United States Attorney's Office asked Judge Brian Cogan to sentence Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada to life imprisonment and payment of 15 billion dollars at a hearing scheduled for July 20.
In a filing submitted on July 13, the US Attorney's Office described Zambada as one of the world's most prolific drug traffickers. The document states he supervised the entry of cocaine and fentanyl into the United States and ordered tortures and murders.
The prosecution also seeks forfeiture of assets worth 15 billion dollars. It noted that the Sinaloa Cartel paid millions in bribes to Mexican officials at all levels.
Zambada's arrest occurred in July 2024. Mexico continues to request details from the United States about the operation and has reiterated that any covert participation without notice would constitute a violation of sovereignty.
