Prosecutors Say Sinaloa Cartel Laundered $50 Million Via China-Linked LA Network

Mexican and Chinese law enforcement cooperated with U.S. authorities to arrest fugitives named in the indictment.

Confiscated drug money. U.S. District Attorney via AP

The Department of Justice (DOJ) alleged Tuesday that Mexico’s Sinaloa drug cartel, blamed for the influx of fentanyl into the United States, has conspired with groups linked to “Chinese underground banking” to launder more than $50 million in drug proceeds.

A multi-year investigation dubbed “Operation Fortune Runner” has resulted in the superseding indictment of 24 defendants, identified as Sinaloa associates in Los Angeles, the DOJ said.