2 C.I.A. Officers Killed in Mexico Crash Lacked Proper Authorization
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- Two American officials killed in a car crash in northern Mexico were involved in a counter-cartel operation but did not have formal authorization from the Mexican government to conduct such activities.
- Mexican authorities revealed that one official entered Mexico as a visitor without work permission, while the other held a diplomatic passport, and Mexican security agencies were unaware of any foreign agents participating in operational activities.
- Reports indicate the Americans were CIA officers who died along with two Mexican officials while returning from an operation to dismantle a large methamphetamine lab in Chihuahua.
- The incident has raised questions about the extent of U.S. involvement in Mexico's drug war and which Mexican authorities authorized the American officials' participation.
- The CIA, which has expanded its role in Latin America's drug war under President Trump, declined to comment on the matter.
