Hugo Gonzalo Mendoza Gaitán (Hugo Gonzalo Mendoza Gaytán), known as El Sapo, is a suspect in a US case concerning international drug trafficking who is wanted by the DEA. In August 2026, he was included in an announcement regarding new measures to prosecute CJNG leaders. [1][2][3]
Brief profile
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Name in sources | Hugo Gonzalo Mendoza Gaytán |
| Date of birth | 1988 — according to the DEA file |
| Jurisdiction and international links | Mexico; USA |
| Legal status | Listed on the DEA’s wanted list; facing criminal charges in the US |
| Other names and aliases | El Sapo; Sapo; S-90; Señor de las Armas |
What the indictment reveals
The document, published by the US Department of Justice, links the alleged conspiracy to the period from approximately 2008 to March 2025. It alleges the manufacture and distribution of at least five kilograms of cocaine and at least 500 grams of methamphetamine for importation into the US. [1][2][3]
These figures represent the thresholds used in the indictment and do not constitute an exhaustive tally of all shipments. An additional charge relates to weapons. The indictment sets out the grand jury’s version of events and does not constitute a conviction. [1][2][3]
DEA profile and name variants
The DEA has published a photograph of Mendoza Gaitán and his aliases: Sapo, S-90 and Señor de las Armas. The notice specifies the District of Columbia and offers a reward of up to $15 million. Reports of arrests of individuals with similar nicknames require separate identity verification. [1][2][3]
Timeline of the case
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 04.11.2025 | Date of the published indictment. |
| 05.08.2026 | Public announcement of new measures against CJNG leaders. |
Verified on 4 November 2026. The status of the case is based on the sources cited; charges and allegations do not constitute a conviction.
