DEA congratulates Mexico's Citizen Security and Defense for the arrest of "R1"; highlights "successful operation"

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has praised Mexican authorities for the successful capture of Ramón Ángel “R1”, a key figure linked to the murder of former mayor Carlos Manzo. In a message posted on X, DEA administrator Terry Cole commended the Secretariat of Public Security (SSPC) and the Mexican Defense National Forces for their joint operation leading to the arrest of “R1”. The DEA highlighted the collaboration between U.S. and Mexican agencies, emphasizing how the effort benefited both nations. This follows recent actions against drug cartels, including the killing of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho”. The arrest of Ramón Ángel Álvarez Ayala, who goes by the alias “R1”, was announced by Mexican authorities on Thursday. According to reports, “R1” is believed to be the intellectual author behind the assassination of Carlos Manzo, the former mayor of Uruapan, who was killed on November 1, 2025. The incident occurred during the Day of the Dead celebrations in western Mexico and sparked national outrage due to its timing and the public nature of the crime. The Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) is suspected of carrying out the attack, with indications that the cartel’s top leader, “El Mencho,” was aware of the operation. Omar García Harfuch, the secretary of security, stated during a presidential morning briefing that the case is far from closed. He noted that while “R1” has been detained, the main suspect, the head of a highly violent cell within the cartel called “Los Rs”, remains at large. This individual is alleged to have ordered and funded the killing of Manzo. García Harfuch described the alderman’s stance as a “provocation” against the CJNG, which led to his assassination. The DEA’s praise for the joint operation underscores the ongoing efforts to combat organized crime through international cooperation. U.S. Ambassador Ronald Johnson also expressed appreciation for the collaborative work between Mexican and American agencies, highlighting the “hands-on” approach taken by both sides. Johnson specifically mentioned other operations targeting drug cartels, such as the killing of “El Mencho,” indicating that the fight against narcotics trafficking continues to be a priority for both governments. Meanwhile, the brother of “El Mencho” has pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges in the United States and will face sentencing in November. This legal action adds another layer to the complex web of criminal activity involving high-profile figures in the drug trade. However, the focus remains on the unresolved case of Carlos Manzo and the broader implications of the CJNG’s influence in the region. Mexican officials continue to emphasize the need for sustained efforts to dismantle cartels and bring justice to victims. While the capture of “R1” represents a tactical victory, the larger investigation into the murder of Manzo and the leadership structure of the CJNG remains active. Authorities are working to identify and apprehend the remaining suspects, ensuring that the perpetrators of such violent acts are held accountable. The case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in dealing with transnational organized crime and the importance of continued inter-agency cooperation.