Mexico’s government has stated that two U.S. CIA agents who died in a car crash after allegedly raiding a clandestine drug lab were not authorized to participate in operations on Mexican territory. The agents, along with two Mexican officers, were killed when their vehicle drove off a ravine and exploded in the northern state of Chihuahua last weekend.
The Security Ministry clarified that one agent entered Mexico as a visitor, while the other used a diplomatic passport. The ministry emphasized that Mexican law prohibits foreign agents from engaging in operations within the country. "Mexican law is clear: it does not permit the participation of foreign agents in operations within the national territory," the ministry said in a statement.
The incident has sparked conflicting accounts from U.S. and Mexican officials. While Mexico initially denied any knowledge of U.S. involvement, President Claudia Sheinbaum later acknowledged that federal forces were part of the operation. The ministry is now reviewing the case with local authorities and the U.S. Embassy in Mexico.
"The Government of Mexico reiterates its willingness to maintain a close, serious, and respectful relationship with the Government of the United States for the benefit of the security of both countries," the ministry added.
The CIA has declined to comment on the matter, leaving unclear the exact role of the agents in the operation. The case highlights ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Mexico over sovereignty and law enforcement collaboration in the fight against drug trafficking.