Honduras extradited to the United States the powerful drug lord Carlos Arnoldo Lobo, known as "El Negro," early on Friday. This is the first time that Honduras has extradited one of its citizens, dpa reported. "We commend Honduras' resolve in taking this historic step to extradite one of its own citizens, which strikes a blow against impunity for organized crime and narcotics trafficking," US State Department Spokeswoman Jen Psaki said. "Mr. Lobo's extradition is an important affirmation of the rule of law in Honduras and a strong signal that President Juan Orlando Hernandez is fully committed to stopping the use of Honduran territory for illicit activity," she said. Lobo, regarded as one of the Central American country's most influential drug bosses, was taken to the US state of Florida, where he is set to be tried on drug trafficking charges, the authorities of both countries said. According to US authorities, 80 per cent of the cocaine that is consumed in the United States goes through Honduras. About 70 per cent of the murders in the Central American country, which is the world's most dangerous nation according to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, are linked to drug trafficking. "I am convinced that this decision will contribute to protecting our citizens," said Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez. -- SPA 18:36 LOCAL TIME 15:36 GMT تغريد
