Playa del Carmen, Mexico — A criminal cell linked to former members of the Michoacán self-defense forces was arrested in Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, according to information provided by Vice Prosecutor Aroshy de los Ángeles Lugo Arana. The cell was detained while handling narcotic substances and was in possession of an arsenal of high-caliber weapons, including ten firearms reserved for the exclusive use of the Mexican Army, as well as ammunition.
The operation took place in the Paseos de Xcacel neighborhood, where six individuals, including one woman, were apprehended with the objective of establishing control over drug trafficking in the region. Investigations indicate that two of the detainees had prior involvement with the self-defense forces of Michoacán, a group that originally formed to combat cartels in that area.
According to statements from the vice prosecutor, the detainees were planning to displace rival criminal groups to seize control of the sale of narcotics in Playa del Carmen. Among those arrested are Lorenzo N, who previously had a role in the security detail of a self-defense force leader in Michoacán, and Gerardo N, also known as "El Gerry," who also worked as an escort for a leader in 2013.
This type of operation highlights the growing concern of authorities regarding the presence of criminal groups in the region, as well as the increase in high-impact crimes, such as drug sales.
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