WASHINGTON — The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has unveiled a sweeping new initiative aimed at weakening cartel networks by striking at their most critical operatives—known as “gatekeepers”—who control smuggling corridors along the Southwest border.
At the center of this effort is Project Portero, a flagship operation designed to dismantle the individuals who oversee the movement of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine into the United States, while also coordinating the flow of firearms and drug money back into Mexico.
To launch the initiative, DEA has begun a multi-week joint training and coordination program at one of its border intelligence centers. The program brings together Mexican investigators, U.S. law enforcement, prosecutors, defense officials, and intelligence officers to identify high-value targets, share intelligence, and develop coordinated enforcement strategies.
The initiative is closely tied to the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF), which unites multiple U.S. government agencies to ensure a whole-of-government approach in combating cartel operations.
“DEA is taking decisive action to confront the cartels that are killing Americans with fentanyl and other poisons,” said DEA Administrator Terrance Cole. “Project Portero and this new training program show how we will fight—by planning and operating side by side with our Mexican partners, and by bringing the full strength of the U.S. government to bear.”
This cross-border strategy reflects Cole’s broader priorities: strengthening enforcement, targeting cartels designated as terrorist organizations, and expanding cooperation with foreign counterparts. While fentanyl remains the most urgent threat, officials say Project Portero will also target weapons trafficking, illicit financing, and other criminal activity fueling cartel power.
