Canada lists 7 criminal organisations as terrorist entities

Canada has listed seven transnational criminal organizations as terrorist entities, the public safety minister said on Thursday.

The list includes Mara Salvatrucha, Cartel de Sinaloa and Tren de Aragua.

The announcement comes a day after the United States designated Tren de Aragua, the Sinaloa Cartel and other drug cartels as global terrorist organizations.

"These listed entities are organized crime groups that spread fear in local populations by using methods of extreme violence, and are known for drug trafficking, human trafficking and trafficking in illegal guns," Minister David McGuinty told reporters in Ottawa.

"The measures we are taking will keep fentanyl off the streets and from entering the United States."

The other listed entities are the Cartel del Golfo, La Familia Michoacana, Carteles Unidos and Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said on Thursday following the U.S. terror listings that she will propose a constitutional reform aimed at further protecting Mexico's national sovereignty.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had said on February 3 that Canada would list cartels as terrorists as he announced a 30-day reprieve from U.S. tariffs.

Canada has also appointed a fentanyl czar. Public data shows 0.2% of all fentanyl seized in the U.S. comes over the Canadian border, while the vast majority originates from the United States' southern border with Mexico. REUTERS