UIF Chief Omar Reyes Estimated That 7,861 of These Accounts Are Directly Linked to Organized Crime Organizations

Mexico's government has frozen roughly $465 million and blocked more than 24,000 bank accounts as part of a crackdown on alleged illicit financial operations, according to the country's Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF). Since President Sheinbaum took office, the UIF, an arm of Mexico's Finance Ministry, has frozen 24,662 accounts belonging to 2,395 individuals over suspected illegal activities. The total value of the frozen funds amounts to approximately $465 million.

UIF chief Omar Reyes estimated that 7,861 of these accounts are directly linked to organized crime organizations. The authorities carried out these actions in close coordination with the Security, Defense, and Navy ministries, as well as the Attorney General's Office and the National Banking Commission. As part of the national strategy against extortion, an additional 1,443 accounts specifically associated with that crime have been blocked.

These actions weaken the economic structure of criminal organizations, prevent the use of the financial system for illicit activities, and strengthen coordination, Reyes said. To combat money laundering, the UIF has also established new collaboration mechanisms with international and national institutions, including the Mexican Banking Association.