Yucatán Cracks Down on Drug Cartel Leaders

Yucatán, Mexico — Security forces in Yucatán have dealt significant blows to organized crime this year, arresting at least eight high-profile criminal leaders. These apprehensions highlight the effectiveness of interagency operations and authorities' commitment to maintaining regional security.

Recent Arrests Disrupt Criminal Networks

One of the most recent arrests occurred last Thursday, when Fernando R.C., also known as "Fernando de la empresa," "El Patrón Fernando," or "El Patrón de Conkal," was detained. Identified as the alleged leader of a drug trafficking cell operating in northern Mérida and the municipality of Conkal, Fernando R.C. was captured at a property on Calle 19 between 26 and 28 in Xcuyún, Conkal. He was apprehended alongside Kevin A.O.R., and both were handed over to the Federal Public Prosecutor's Office, along with seized narcotics.

Fernando R.C.'s arrest adds to a series of high-profile detentions that have weakened criminal structures in the state:

• Nemías Y.C., alias "El Búho": Arrested on March 3, this alleged leader of a Cártel de Caborca cell in southern Yucatán was detained by agents in Tzucacab. He was captured on Calle 23 with 31, accompanied by his partner, who was not detained.

• Detentions Linked to La Familia Michoacana: On May 31, three individuals allegedly tied to the Cártel de la Familia Michoacana were arrested at the "El Cedro" ranch in Buctzotz. Among them were siblings J.A.V.S. and M.B.V.S. ("María la michoacana"), who, according to unofficial sources, belong to the founding family of the Cartel del Milenio. One suspect escaped during the operation and was reportedly linked to Servando Gómez Martínez, "La Tuta," former leader of Los Caballeros Templarios and La Familia Michoacana.

• Francisco Javier P. de C., alias "El Fefe": Captured on May 22 at a checkpoint on the Mérida-Cancún toll road, this 36-year-old Tabasco native led the criminal cell "Los Pelones." He was transferred to the Attorney General's Office (FGR) for federal prosecution.

• Josué Alejandro I.C., alias "Paco," "El Jefe," and "Patrón": Arrested in Mérida in March, this 40-year-old local allegedly headed a drug trafficking ring in the state capital. Authorities seized over half a ton of marijuana, 22 kilograms of cocaine, 42 kilograms of methamphetamine, and three kilograms of crack cocaine in simultaneous raids.

• "El Moreno": Detained in February alongside four others during operations in the El Roble Agrícola neighborhood.

• Helbert Armando B.E., alias "El Lic," "El Lic. Alejandro," or "El Rey": One of the leaders of the Cártel de los Epitacio, arrested on January 28 in Mérida and Kanasín.

Continued Efforts Against Organized Crime

These arrests underscore the ongoing efforts by Yucatán authorities to dismantle organized crime networks. The seizures of narcotics and the prosecution of high-ranking figures reflect a sustained crackdown on drug trafficking and related criminal activities in the region.

Authorities have not disclosed further operational details but emphasize their commitment to maintaining public safety through coordinated law enforcement actions.