Mexican authorities have arrested an alleged leader of a faction of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel in an operation supported by intelligence from the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. The suspect, identified by authorities as Rafael “N” and known by the nickname “R2”, was captured in the state of Jalisco. Nineteen other people were also detained during the operation.
Mexico’s Navy said the arrest took place in Zapopan and involved special operations forces working with the country’s security ministry. The operation followed intelligence work by Mexico’s National Intelligence Center and information shared by the DEA. Officials said the suspect was believed to lead a criminal cell operating in Jalisco and neighbouring Michoacan.
Security Minister Omar García Harfuch said the group was linked to several serious crimes. These included extortion, drug trafficking, homicide, kidnapping, unlawful detention and attacks against authorities. Business owners and avocado producers were among the people reportedly targeted by the group’s extortion activities.
Authorities also allege that the suspect was connected to the killing of former Uruapan mayor Carlos Manzo and 19 other people. The former mayor was shot during a public Day of the Dead event while he was with his family. Investigators have not presented a final court finding on the allegations against Rafael “N”, and he remains a suspect in the cases described by officials.
The suspect has an outstanding arrest warrant in Mexico for aggravated homicide. He is also wanted for extradition to the United States, where the DEA says he faces federal drug trafficking and firearms charges. Mexican authorities have not publicly released his full surname, following the country’s common practice of identifying suspects in this way.
The operation also involved an exchange of gunfire. The Navy said its personnel came under attack and returned fire. The suspect and one naval officer were wounded and received medical attention. Officials did not report further details about the condition of those injured.
The arrest is part of wider efforts by Mexico and the United States to target organised crime groups that operate across borders. Cooperation between security agencies can help authorities share information and track suspects involved in drug trafficking and violence. The investigation is expected to continue as officials examine the role of the people detained and gather evidence for possible legal proceedings.
