The arrest of notorious drug lord Rafael Caro Quintero was a huge victory for the Mexican government, as he was one of the FBI’s ten most-wanted fugitives.
Quintero was convicted of torturing and murdering a United States anti-drug agent in 1985, and as a co-founder of the dangerous Guadalajara cartel, he was notorious for running one of Latin America’s largest drug operations.
While the operation was conducted by the Mexican Navy, Max, a six-year-old dog, was the mission’s greatest hero. Authorities credit Max, a female bloodhound belonging to the Mexican Marines, with tracking and locating Quintero in the brush near San Simon.
Born in 2016, Max weighs approximately 78 pounds, and according to the Mexican military, he is an expert tracker. The bloodhound was a member of the forces during the capture mission and has participated in a number of military search operations.
Reuters reported that United States Attorney General Merrick Garland stated he would seek Caro Quintero’s extradition immediately.
“No hiding place exists for those who kidnap, torture, and murder American law enforcement officers. We are extremely appreciative to the Mexican authorities for capturing and arresting Rafael Caro-Quintero “Garland stated in a declaration.
Prior to his arrest, Quintero had the highest reward of any drug trafficker in history: $20 million. He is anticipated to receive a life sentence in the United States, similar to Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman Loera.
