International recognition: DEA highlights Omar García Harfuch’s work in the fight against drug trafficking
During the 40th International Drug Enforcement Conference (IDEC) held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Terry Cole, offered strong support for the management of Mexico’s Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection, Omar García Harfuch. Before representatives from more than 100 nations, the U.S. official described Harfuch as a strategic partner and a fundamental ally in regional security.
Cole’s speech highlighted the nearly two decades of experience of the head of the SSPC, underscoring his time at key institutions such as the Federal Police and the Criminal Investigation Agency. The DEA director emphasized that the Mexican official possesses a deep understanding of shared challenges, including the fight against transnational criminal organizations that fuel violence, corruption, and the trafficking of illicit substances.
He wants the best for his country, I want the best for this country and for Americans and our national security. Communication is constant and we continue to work together on the ground.
Terry Cole, DEA Director
Binational cooperation and operational strategy
The relationship between both officials has been consolidated through fluid and constant communication. Cole emphasized that the joint strategy focuses on fundamental pillars: intelligence sharing, the dismantling of criminal supply chains, and the neutralization of cartel leadership from an operational perspective.
This link is not new. Since the beginning of Harfuch’s administration at the SSPC in 2024, high-level meetings have been held in Washington and other strategic points to coordinate actions against organized crime. These efforts include collaborations with the FBI and other U.S. agencies, focused on the capture of priority targets and the reduction of arms trafficking into Mexican territory.
The IDEC Conference: A global forum against crime
The 40th edition of the IDEC, under the theme “Justice through strength and unity,” brought together hundreds of security experts at the Palacio Libertad in Buenos Aires. This forum, established in 1983, has evolved into a strategic platform where actions against money laundering, narco-terrorism, and drug trafficking are coordinated globally.
- Participation of delegates from more than 100 countries.
- Coordination of operational policies against transnational organized crime.
- Focus on strategic intelligence and dismantling of criminal networks.
- Presence of high-ranking global security officials.
Mexico’s participation, led by Garcia Harfuch, reaffirms the commitment of the federal security cabinet under the administration of President Claudia Sheinbaum to maintain a firm and collaborative stance in the fight against insecurity, always prioritizing stability and peace for the citizenry.
