The U.S. government is offering a reward of up to $5 million for information that leads to the capture and arrest of El Chapo, the Mexican drug kingpin who escaped prison last month through a tunnel burrowed into his cell.
The Drug Enforcement Administration announced the reward Wednesday as it publicized a tip-line established for information about the whereabouts of the Sinaloa Cartel leader.
Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman escaped from a maximum security prison in Mexico last month. A mile-long tunnel that led to his cell was discovered following his escape.
Authorities said Wednesday they believe the 60-year-old convict is still in Mexico.
“His escape poses a danger to the safety and security of both our countries,” said DEA Acting Administrator Chuck Rosenberg. “DEA will continue to work closely with our Mexican counterparts and provide as many resources as possible to ensure his arrest.”
The Mexican government has already offered a $3.8 million reward for information leading to his capture.
SEE ALSO: Unfinished drug tunnel discovered near U.S. border; ‘El Chapo’ escaped in similar shaft
Authorities say his cartel runs large marijuana plantations in Mexico and is responsible for tons of cocaine shipped from South America into Mexico and onto the United States. The criminal enterprise has made Guzman a billionaire and among the richest drug traffickers in the world.
This is Guzman’s second escape from custody. He was serving a 20-year prison sentence when he first escaped in 2001. He was recaptured in February 2014.
The tip-line for information is (844) 692-4101. Tips can also be emailed to CHAPOTIPS@USDOJ.GOV.
• Andrea Noble can be reached at anoble@washingtontimes.com.
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