The State Intelligence Secretariat coordinated an operation that resulted in the arrest in Puerto Madero of Rodolfo Junior Aguirre Covarrubias, a Mexican citizen wanted by the Justice of the United States for crimes related to drug trafficking.
The fugitive was located in a hotel in Buenos Aires after an intelligence investigation that allowed for the detection of his entry into Argentina. Based on that information, the SIDE verified with U.S. authorities that the judicial request was still valid and involved Interpol of the Argentine Federal Police.
Rodolfo Junior Aguirre Covarrubias, alleged Mexican drug trafficker
With the data provided by the agency, federal agents established the location of Aguirre Covarrubias and executed his capture. The operation also involved the National Migration Directorate and the Federal Investigation Department of the Federal Police.
The Minister of National Security Alejandra Monteoliva confirmed the arrest and highlighted the joint work among the different agencies. “Thanks to an investigation by the SIDE, in a joint effort with the National Migration Directorate and the DFI of the Argentine Federal Police, we went to look for him and arrested him in Buenos Aires,” she stated. Additionally, the official took the opportunity to summarize the Government's stance on crime: “Argentina is not a refuge for criminals. THEY DO IT. THEY PAY FOR IT.”
Aguirre Covarrubias was wanted by the Justice of the Northern District of Illinois for crimes of possession, distribution, and commercialization of more than ten kilograms of cocaine, in a case initiated in 2016. He had regained his freedom on bail but violated the conditions set by the court and remained a fugitive.
The statement issued by the SIDE
Following his arrest, he was placed at the disposal of the Argentine Justice while the extradition process to the United States progresses. The SIDE emphasized that the result was possible due to the coordination of the National Intelligence System and international cooperation.
The operation represents a new blow against drug trafficking and demonstrates the ability of the Government of Javier Milei to locate, arrest, and bring international fugitives who attempt to use Argentina as a refuge for criminals to Justice.
