Authorities from the Dominican Republic reported the arrest of Efrain Sánchez Cabanillas, also known as "El Bala," a member of the Sinaloa Cartel and a person of high interest to U.S. authorities. The capture took place at Punta Cana International Airport, La Altagracia province, while he was attempting to leave the country on a commercial flight.
According to investigations, Sánchez Cabanillas faced charges of trafficking fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine in the United States. Dominican authorities highlighted that the detainee is a high-priority target for U.S. justice. The individual, 38 years old, was also wanted in Massachusetts for possession and sale of drugs, including fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine in significant quantities.
The collaboration between the National Drug Control Directorate (DNCD), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and U.S. Marshals resulted in the capture of this important member of the Sinaloa Cartel. Dominican authorities carried out the arrest in compliance with immigration laws that prevent the admission of foreigners with criminal records or those who are fugitives from justice.
This incident is part of the Dominican Republic's efforts to combat drug trafficking and dismantle the presence of international cartels in the country. Collaboration with U.S. authorities in the capture of Efrain Sánchez Cabanillas represents an important step in the fight against drug trafficking in the region, amidst tensions related to the drug policies implemented by President Donald Trump.