Romanian authorities release footage of top CJNG member extradited to US

In March 2020, Romanian authorities arrested Carlos Ruben Ramirez Monroy, a high-ranking Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) member based in Europe. He was extradited to the U.S. in July to face trial for his outstanding drug charges, but his transfer was not announced in the press or garnered international headlines. Today, the Romanian police released the video of his extradition. Ramirez-Monroy was a CJNG representative in Europe under Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes (“El Mencho“).

According to U.S. authorities, Ramirez-Monroy coordinated international drug trafficking activities for the CJNG from 2016 to 2020. His drug operations extended from Mexico, the US, New Zealand and several countries in Europe. In Romania, the CJNG smuggled narcotics through various ports, including Port of Constanța, the largest on the Black Sea. Once inside Romanian borders, the CJNG moved the drugs through local gangs and distributors.

His arrest in Bucharest last year was kept a “secret” while U.S. authorities negotiated for his extradition. His capture was part of a US-led international operation headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). One source claimed that the interest towards Ramirez-Monroy was so high that the day after he was arrested, a US special agent arrived in Bucharest to start negotiations.

While in custody, Ramirez-Monroy embraced the “law of silence”. He did not say a single word during his hearings. Moreover, he proved defiant to those present in the courtroom. When a Spanish translator asked him two questions, he remained impassive, as if he were not present.

“[Ramirez-Monroy] intended to introduce large quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine into the Romanian territory. The role of this Mexican citizen was to supervise the activities of other members of the cartel and to confirm the transportation, as well as to ensure the flow of money necessary for the continuation of criminal activities,” Romanian authorities confirmed.

The Romanian Police and prosecutors collaborated with several US agencies for this operation, namely DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration), Homeland Security, and US Marshals.