Bolivian Drug Trafficker Extradited to the United States

(Creative Commons/srqpix)

A Bolivian national, Anez Vaca, was arrested at Buenos Aires' airport in January 2022 on an INTERPOL Red Notice issued by the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL). He has been in prison since then while awaiting extradition to the United States. Vaca was flown to San Diego by the United States Marshals Service on October 3, 2022, and then appeared in court before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel E. Butcher the next day.

Chad Platz, Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) San Diego said “The extradition of Anez Vaca Diez to the United States is a perfect example of Homeland Security Investigations' broad reach and successful partnerships fostered with our international colleagues,” and “This extradition should send a clear message to those who believe they can evade law enforcement. We will find you and work to bring you to the U.S. to face justice.”

This case is also part of the ongoing efforts of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), which is a partnership that brings together the combined expertise and unique abilities of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.

US Attorney Randy Grossman said “Today is a reminder that international drug traffickers who profit by shipping narcotics into our community are not safe from prosecution,” and “We will work with our international partners to bring them to justice wherever they may travel.”

Grossman thanked those involved in the case for their hard work and assistance in the matter.

Anez Vaca is charged with the following:

• International Drug Trafficking Conspiracy
• Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine and Methamphetamine
• Money Laundering Conspiracy