US Formally Charges CJNG Leaders ‘El R1’ and ‘El R2’ with Drug Trafficking

Mexico City — The United States has formally charged brothers Ramón and Rafael Álvarez Ayala, known as “El R1” and “El R2,” with drug trafficking, identifying them as leaders of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) in Michoacán.

The U.S. Department of Justice said the pair are accused of conspiring to produce and distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 500 grams or more of methamphetamine for importation into the United States from 2004 through December 2023. They also face charges of using, carrying, brandishing and discharging a firearm, including a machine gun, in connection with a drug trafficking conspiracy.

“El R1” has also been linked to the killing of Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo. He was arrested during an operation carried out by multiple Mexican security agencies in Atotonilco El Alto, in the western state of Jalisco.

In a social media post, Public Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch described “El R1” as the main leader of “Los Rs,” a violent criminal cell tied to the CJNG with operations in Apatzingán, Uruapan and Morelia, Michoacán, as well as in Jalisco. He said the organization is linked to extortion, homicides and drug trafficking that directly affects producers, business owners and families in the region.

García Harfuch also highlighted cooperation with U.S. authorities, saying there is a strong exchange of information and that immediately after the arrest, Mexican officials were already sharing intelligence with their U.S. counterparts. “We greatly appreciate any information they provide us,” he added.