A $5 million bounty hangs over the head of Francisco Manuel Bermúdez Cagua, a key figure within Los Choneros, a gang now officially designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. The hunt for “Churron,” as he’s known, intensifies as authorities connect him to a ruthless network flooding the United States with cocaine and weaponry.
The 29-year-old Bermúdez Cagua faces serious charges in the Eastern District of New York, including international cocaine distribution and firearms offenses. A superseding indictment details his alleged role as a top lieutenant, directing a flow of drugs that has poisoned communities and fueled violence on both sides of the border.
Federal prosecutors paint a chilling picture of Los Choneros as one of the most violent transnational criminal organizations operating today. They allegedly move tons of cocaine, utilizing a complex network stretching from South America through Central America, Mexico, and ultimately, into the United States.
This isn’t a solitary pursuit. The recent extradition of José Adolfo Macías Villamar, known as “Fito,” to New York signals a broader crackdown on the organization’s leadership. Another key figure, Darío Javier Peñafiel Nieto, nicknamed “Topo,” is already in Ecuadorian custody.
The State Department’s Narcotics Reward Program is driving the effort, recognizing the urgent need to dismantle this dangerous group. Officials emphasize that every tool available will be used to disrupt the flow of deadly drugs and hold those responsible accountable.
The designation of Los Choneros as a Foreign Terrorist Organization underscores the severity of the threat. It’s a recognition that their actions extend beyond traditional criminal activity, actively destabilizing Ecuador and endangering international security.
Authorities believe Bermúdez Cagua isn’t just a drug trafficker; he’s a “narco-terrorist” actively fueling chaos and violence. The DEA is determined to increase pressure and bring him to justice, offering a direct line for confidential information.
Anyone with knowledge of Bermúdez Cagua’s whereabouts is urged to come forward. The DEA has established dedicated contact points – Ecuadortips@dea.gov and +593-988-292-235 – ensuring complete confidentiality for those who provide crucial leads.
The pursuit of Bermúdez Cagua represents a critical step in a larger strategy to dismantle Los Choneros and sever their connections to the United States. The stakes are high, and the resolve to succeed is unwavering.
