Rafael Cardenas Vela, 38, was accused of running the cartel`s operations in Mexico`s Rio Bravo and Matamoros areas and helping to distribute huge quantities of cocaine and marijuana that were smuggled into the United States.
He was arrested in Port Isabel, Texas on October 20.
Federal agents "have made it a top priority to bring stability and security to this border region," said Jerry Robinette, who heads the region`s Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Homeland Security joint investigation team.
"Holding those responsible and accountable for these crimes is the first step."
Cardenas faces up to life in prison and more than $20 million in fines if convicted of drug trafficking, money laundering and other charges. (*)
Editor: Kunto Wibisono
Copyright © ANTARA 2011
