News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 4, 2000

DEA ACTING ADMINISTRATOR DONNIE R. MARSHALL CONGRATULATES MEXICAN AUTHORITIES ON THE ARREST OF ISMAEL HIGUERRA-GUERRERO

Today, following public confirmation by the Office of the Attorney General of Mexico, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Acting Administrator Donnie R. Marshall congratulated the Mexican authorities on the arrest of Ismael Higuerra-Guerrero AKA "Mayel" in the area of Tijuana, Mexico.

According to DEA Acting Administrator Donnie R. Marshall, "The arrest of Ismael Higuerra-Guerrero on Mexican drug trafficking charges represents a major victory for both Mexican and U.S. law enforcement. Higuerra-Guerrero's apprehension in Mexico is a significant step toward bringing the leaders of the notorious Arrellano-Felix drug mafia to justice, and presents the opportunity for future successes in breaking the cycle of violence. We hope that the Government of Mexico will be able to capitalize on this successful investigation by expanding it to further disrupt these violent criminal groups."

"Higuerra-Guerrero is the chief of operations for the Arrellano-Felix Organization and must now be held accountable in a court of law for his criminal activities. DEA pledges to assist and provide any information that may aide in his prosecution under Mexican law," said Marshall.