Fausto Isidro Meza Flores, broadly recognized by his moniker "El Chapo Isidro," has officially entered the ranks of the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list, marking him as one of the most notorious drug traffickers globally. The law enforcement agency announced this development on February 9, 2025, and is offering up to five million dollars for information leading to his capture. This significant reward reflects the severe extent of his alleged operations and the threat he poses to public safety.
With his roots deeply entrenched in the Mexican drug trade, Meza Flores is identified as the supposed leader of the Transnational Criminal Organization Meza-Flores, which is notorious for its violent tactics and heavy armed presence. The FBI's inclusion of "El Chapo Isidro" on their Most Wanted list signifies not just his influence, but his extensive involvement in trafficking large amounts of narcotics—including dangerous opioids like fentanyl and heroin—into the United States since the early 2000s.
Meza Flores's career began under the tutelage of Amado Carrillo Fuentes, head of the Juárez Cartel, before rising through the ranks to lead his criminal organization following the division of the Beltrán Leyva brothers' cartel. This leadership shift came after their split from the Sinaloa Cartel, where he has since emerged as one of the most significant rivals to Joaquín Guzmán Loera, also known as "El Chapo" Guzmán.
Throughout his nearly two-decade criminal career, he has faced multiple arrests and subsequent releases, earning him the title among some as "el capo escurridizo" or the elusive drug lord. His most recent federal charges followed accusations of conspiracy to manufacture and distribute illicit substances between 2005 and 2019. The legal repercussions are serious: authorities allege he orchestrated distribution networks facilitating the movement of drugs across borders, contributing to the rampant opioid crisis affecting much of America.
According to FBI reports, the violent nature of Meza Flores's organization cannot be overlooked. The cartel is accused not only of drug trafficking but also of severe violent crimes, including extortion, kidnapping, and murder. A horrifying highlight of his violent reputation surfaced in 2011 when connections were found between Meza Flores and the brutal murder of 16 individuals found scorched beyond recognition. These actions have only solidified his legacy as one of the most dangerous criminals currently wanted by the FBI.
"During decades, the public has shared information with the FBI which has helped us capture dangerous criminals. Today, we ask for your help to find Fausto Isidro Meza Flores," said Sean Ryan, FBI Special Agent, during the announcement. The FBI urges the public to report any information on Meza Flores, noting the invaluable role community tips play in apprehending fugitives.
Brian Driscoll, acting director of the FBI, emphasized the importance of the public’s assistance, adding, "Known as El Chapo Isidro, he has been flooding the U.S. with fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, and other lethal drugs, first as an independent trafficker and later as the head of the Meza-Flores cartel." This urgent call for help aligns with the FBI’s mission to bring justice to those who facilitate drug trafficking and contribute to community violence.
Meza Flores remains at large, believed to be hiding somewhere within Mexico. The FBI’s detailed profile reveals he is 42 years old, approximately 5 feet 6 inches tall, weighing around 160 pounds with brown eyes and dark brown hair. His physical description and history suggest he remains armed and dangerous, posing significant threats to law enforcement and civilians alike.
The FBI continues its tradition of seeking community involvement to tackle drug violence, echoing the ethos of working alongside citizens to reclaim safety and preemptively combat the epidemic of drug trafficking. “If you have any information about Meza Flores, please contact your local FBI office or U.S. embassy. You can also submit tips anonymously via designated channels.”
With drug-related violence continuing to cast shadows over communities on both sides of the U.S.-Mexican border, authorities are determined to capture leaders like Meza Flores. The continued support from the public is not only encouraged but is seen as key to curbing the trauma inflicted by the drug trade. The impending pursuit of "El Chapo Isidro" is not simply about legality but rather the safety and health of countless lives impacted by his alleged criminal enterprise.