Washington, D.C. – The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), in partnership with the Department of State and the Department of Justice, has announced the unsealing of a superseding indictment for Juan José Ponce Félix, also known as “El Ruso”, and a $5 million reward for information leading to his arrest.
Ponce Félix is believed to be the leader of “Los Rusos”, a violent faction of the Sinaloa Cartel that controls the Mexicali corridor between Mexico and the U.S. His cartel group is responsible for the distribution of millions of dollars’ worth of fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin across the U.S.
Criminal History and Sinaloa Cartel Connections
According to federal authorities, Ponce Félix’s organization operates under the leadership of Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada García, who pleaded guilty to drug trafficking-related charges in Brooklyn Federal Court last month. El Mayo co-founded the Sinaloa Cartel alongside Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, building the organization into one of the world’s largest and most powerful drug trafficking networks.
“El Mayo” and “El Chapo” used political corruption, mass murder, and violence to maintain power, importing tons of illicit drugs, including cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl, into the United States.
‘Los Rusos’ and Cartel Violence
Ponce Félix’s faction, “Los Rusos”, is believed to be responsible for much of the cartel violence in Mexico, particularly after splitting from another Sinaloa faction known as the “Chapitos”, which has fueled increased cartel conflict. Authorities allege that Ponce Félix’s group directly manages the distribution of illicit drugs from Mexico into the U.S., as well as the sending of drug proceeds back to Mexico.
The DEA has linked Ponce Félix to firearms trafficking, money laundering, and other crimes used to maintain his grip on power, especially in the Mexicali region.
Corruption and Bribery Allegations
It is further alleged that Ponce Félix paid bribes exceeding $1 million per month to various government officials, including members of Mexico’s police force and military, to maintain control over his territory and drug distribution empire.
The FBI had issued an indictment in October 2015 for Ponce Félix in connection with several violent crimes, including kidnapping, torture, and murder. An arrest warrant was also issued. Despite this, Ponce Félix remains at large, with reports indicating that he is believed to be operating in the Mexicali area, as well as in parts of California and Oregon.
Statements from Authorities
DEA Administrator Terrance Cole said, “Juan José Ponce Félix represents a ruthless and violent faction of the Sinaloa Cartel, responsible for devastating families by fueling the drug crisis throughout the United States.”
Brian M. Clark, the DEA’s special agent in charge of the Los Angeles Field Division, added, “Ponce Félix and his brigade of drug criminals have been terrorizing communities in Mexico and the U.S. for far too long… our agents remain steadfast in ensuring ‘El Ruso’ ends up behind bars.”
Reward and Confidential Tips
Federal authorities are now offering a $5 million reward for information leading to Juan José Ponce Félix’s arrest. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the DEA at RusoTips@dea.gov, with all tips kept confidential.
Conclusion
Ponce Félix remains a significant target for U.S. law enforcement, as his Sinaloa Cartel faction continues to distribute dangerous drugs and perpetuate violence. The $5 million reward underscores the government’s ongoing efforts to dismantle organized criminal enterprises and ensure the safety of communities across the U.S. and Mexico.
If you have any information regarding “El Ruso’s” whereabouts, please reach out to RusoTips@dea.gov. Stay informed about ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and cartel violence in your community.
