Haiti’s “Barbecue” and Mexico’s Cartel Extraditions

 

Global Crime Developments: Haiti’s “Barbecue” and Mexico’s Cartel Extraditions

1.U.S. Indicts Haitian Gang Leader “Barbecue”

A U.S. federal grand jury has indicted Jimmy Chérizier—known as “Barbecue”—the notorious head of the Viv Ansanm and G9 gang coalitions in Port-au-Prince. He faces charges of conspiring to evade U.S. sanctions by funneling money from the Haitian diaspora to arm and fund his criminal operations. The financing scheme was orchestrated with help from Bazile Richardson, a naturalized U.S. citizen arrested in Texas.(turn0news20, turn0search8, turn0news22)

• Background: A former police officer turned gang overlord, Chérizier has been implicated in a series of massacres, kidnappings, and acts of terror across Haiti. His power extends over swathes of Port-au-Prince, and the U.S. designated the Viv Ansanm coalition a terrorist group.(turn0search34, turn0news22)

• Legal Action: If convicted, Chérizier could face up to 20 years in prison. A $5 million U.S. reward is currently offered for information leading to his capture.(turn0news20, turn0news32)

2. Mexico Extradites 26 Cartel Members to the U.S.

In an unprecedented move, Mexico extradited 26 alleged cartel operatives to U.S. authorities today, acting on requests from the U.S. Department of Justice. The individuals are wanted for their roles in drug trafficking and violent cartel operations. Importantly, Mexico secured assurances that none of the extradited individuals would face the death penalty.(turn0news24, turn0news26, turn0search1, turn0search15)

• Political Context: Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum characterized the extraditions as vital to maintaining national security and reinforcing bilateral ties with the U.S., particularly amid ongoing tensions over tariffs and border policy.(turn0news25)

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