Federal prosecutors announced Wednesday that a Homeland Security Task Force investigation resulted in the indictment of two illegal immigrants from Mexico, Martin Eduardo Hernandez Nunez, 36, and Juan Carlos Mojarro Sanchez, 38. The operation seized almost 60 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and fentanyl, a firearm, and more than $66,000 in alleged drug proceeds.
Charges and Potential Sentences
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina charged the defendants with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute crystal methamphetamine, distribution of crystal methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute crystal methamphetamine and fentanyl, and possession with intent to distribute crystal methamphetamine. If convicted, each faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and could receive a life sentence.
Details of the Seizure
According to charging documents, investigators recovered nearly 30 kg of crystal meth and two kilograms of fentanyl from the defendants’ residence in May 2026. A firearm, vacuum sealers, a money counter, drug ledgers, digital scales, and a large kilo press used for repackaging narcotics were also taken. Controlled drug buys yielded an additional four kilograms of meth, and a search warrant at a storage unit uncovered another 30 kg of crystal meth.
Law Enforcement Statements
U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson said, “We are laser focused on identifying transnational criminal organizations and their operatives who smuggle deadly drugs into our communities, fueling addiction and violence. We are going after these organizations at every level to stop their drugs from reaching our streets.” Special Agent in Charge Mark M. Zito added that the task force removed drugs, a gun, and alleged drug money from circulation.
Task Force Collaboration
The investigation was conducted by the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF), an initiative created under Executive Order 14159 that brings together federal, state, and local agencies. Participants included Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI, DEA, ATF, IRS Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Marshals Service, Customs and Border Protection, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, and numerous other partners.
Broader Context
While the indictment was filed in North Carolina, the HSTF framework has been used in Texas, where recent prosecutions have targeted illegal immigrants involved in meth trafficking. Notable cases include a Dallas resident sentenced to 156 months for similar offenses and another individual receiving a 40‑year sentence for a meth distribution cell linked to Mexican drug brokers.
Federal immigration enforcement remains robust, with 264 immigration‑related cases filed in the Western District of Texas during a recent week‑long surge.
Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.
