Mexico Arrests Jalisco Cartel Kingpin 'R2', 19 Others in Major Crackdown

Mexican security forces have arrested a suspected senior leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), known as ‘R2’, along with 19 other individuals in a major operation in the western state of Jalisco. The arrest is part of an intensified crackdown on organised criminal networks involved in drug trafficking, murder, extortion and other violent activities. The operation was carried out in Zapopan, near Guadalajara, with the involvement of Mexico's Navy and federal security agencies. Authorities said intelligence provided by the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) helped security forces locate the suspected cartel operative.

The arrested individual, identified as Rafael ‘N’, is believed to have led a criminal faction known as Los Rs, which allegedly operated across Jalisco and neighbouring Michoacán. According to Mexican security officials, the group was involved in drug distribution, kidnappings, extortion, unlawful detention and attacks against law enforcement personnel.

The operation reportedly turned violent when security forces encountered armed resistance. A gunfight broke out, leaving R2 and a member of the Mexican naval personnel injured. Both were subsequently provided medical treatment. Mexican Security Minister Omar García Harfuch said the arrested suspect was allegedly connected to several serious crimes, including the killing of former Uruapan mayor Carlos Manzo. Manzo was shot dead on November 1, 2025, during a public Day of the Dead celebration in Michoacán. Authorities have also linked the suspected criminal group to 19 other killings.

Investigators are examining the group's alleged involvement in extortion activities targeting local businesses and avocado producers in Michoacán. The region is an important centre of avocado production, and criminal groups have reportedly used threats and illegal payment demands to exert control over parts of the agricultural economy.

Authorities also confirmed that R2 had an outstanding arrest warrant in Mexico for aggravated homicide. He was reportedly wanted in the United States in connection with federal drug trafficking and firearms charges, raising the possibility of extradition proceedings. The arrest followed intelligence coordination between Mexico's National Intelligence Centre and the DEA. The cooperation highlights the growing importance of information-sharing between Mexican and American agencies in tackling criminal organisations involved in cross-border drug trafficking.

The Jalisco New Generation Cartel is considered one of Mexico's most powerful and violent criminal organisations. It has established operations across several regions and is involved in the trafficking of illegal drugs, territorial disputes and attacks on security forces. Although the detention of R2 and 19 other suspects marks a significant development for Mexican law enforcement, authorities continue to face the challenge of dismantling the wider networks that support cartel operations.

Investigations are expected to focus on the alleged criminal activities of the detained individuals, their connections with other cartel members and the possibility of further arrests. The legal proceedings against R2 will also determine the next steps regarding the charges and any potential extradition request from the United States.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from AFP.