Cartel Boss Nabbed at Cancún Fair

CANCÚN — In a joint operation involving state and municipal forces, a man identified as “Pancho Tamaulipas,” alleged to be the leader of a criminal cell responsible for generating violence in Cancún, was arrested. Two of his alleged bodyguards were also captured while they were at a fast-food stall within the fair set up in the Región 228, on Costa Maya Avenue.

According to information confirmed by the State Attorney General’s Office (FGE), the operation was executed by the Mixed Immediate Reaction Group (FRIM), comprised of agents from the State Police, Municipal Police, and ministerial personnel, following several months of investigation and surveillance of this alleged generator of violence.

Coordinated Action at Public Event

Security sources reported that the arrest was carried out in a coordinated manner after detecting that the subject had gone to the area to allegedly collect “protection fees” from merchants operating at the location. The police deployment caused a stir among fair attendees, as officers secured the perimeter before moving in.

Firearms, cartridges, and alleged narcotics were seized during the action. These items were placed under the custody of the ministerial authority.

Unofficial sources indicate that “Pancho Tamaulipas” is believed to be the leader of a faction of a criminal group operating in the northern part of the state, with a presence in Cancún and parts of the Riviera Maya. The detainees were transferred to Municipal Police facilities and subsequently made available to the Public Prosecutor’s Office, where their legal status will be determined in the coming hours.

According to initial reports, the three individuals are believed to be connected to crimes of extortion, drug dealing, and homicide, and are therefore considered highly dangerous.