Drug Kingpin Luis Briseño-Lopez’s Empire Busted in New Mexico

New Mexico’s gritty streets have been dealt a major blow as federal agents targeted the drug trafficking empire of Luis Angel Briseño-Lopez, 30. The DEA-led investigation resulted in charges against twenty-eight alleged members of the Mexican drug trafficking organization (DTO), including Briseño-Lopez.

Over the course of a 16-month probe, authorities seized an alarming 30 kilograms of heroin, 64 kilograms of methamphetamine, 17 kilograms of cocaine, 20 kilograms of marijuana, 24 firearms, $102,000 in currency, and three vehicles. This morning’s early-morning raid executed arrest warrants in New Mexico and Texas, while six search warrants were served at locations across El Paso, Sunland Park, Belen, and Albuquerque.

Acting U.S. Attorney James D. Tierney emphasized the collaborative efforts of federal, state, county, and local law enforcement agencies in dismantling Briseño-Lopez’s operation, stating that the charges and seizures were a testament to their commitment to rid New Mexico of drug traffickers. DEA Special Agent in Charge Will R. Glaspy highlighted the significance of removing criminals from communities involved in smuggling and distributing drugs.

Jeffrey D. Self, Chief Patrol Agent for the El Paso Sector, emphasized the importance of joint efforts in protecting citizens and future generations from those who exploit neighborhoods and children for profit. Waldemar Rodriguez, Special Agent in Charge of HSI El Paso, commended the partnership and commitment to combatting drug addiction and enhancing public safety.

This operation, part of the Justice Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program, was a strategic interdiction that evolved into a successful investigation. Briseño-Lopez, who is believed to reside in Juarez, Mexico, faces federal drug trafficking and money laundering charges. This sweep sends a chilling message to all those who traffic drugs within our communities: they cannot operate with impunity.