The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) has issued a critical alert warning financial institutions to be vigilant for bulk cash smuggling and repatriation operations linked to Mexico-based transnational criminal organizations (TCOs).
The Alert, which was released today, highlights the tactics used by TCOs to launder illicit proceeds generated in the United States through cross-border movements of cash. FinCEN Director Andrea Gacki emphasized that these operations enable TCOs to place, layer, and integrate their illicit funds into both U.S. and Mexican financial systems.
“Mexico-based TCOs generate vast sums of illicit proceeds that they launder through a number of schemes,” said Gacki. “The United States has zero tolerance for the TCOs’ activities, and Treasury is working aggressively to counter these violent organizations.”
The Alert provides an overview of the methodologies associated with bulk cash smuggling and repatriation operations, including red flag indicators that financial institutions should be aware of. The document also reminds institutions of their reporting requirements under the Bank Secrecy Act.
This Alert is part of FinCEN’s efforts to bring awareness to and counter TCO-related revenue streams. It aligns with two of the eight national Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism National Priorities, as well as Executive Order 14157, which aims to combat international cartels that threaten U.S. safety and stability.
Financial institutions are encouraged to review the Alert (FIN-2025-Alert001) available online at Fincen.gov, and submit any questions or inquiries to FinCEN’s Regulatory Support Section via email.
Source: Fincen.gov
