In the state of Michoacán, authorities have arrested 50 individuals suspected of engaging in extortion activities during the first half of 2026, with nine identified as key criminal leaders. The governor, Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla, highlighted these actions as part of broader efforts to combat threats against productive economic sectors such as agriculture. All detained individuals are currently held in custody awaiting trial for their alleged involvement in extortion-related crimes. These arrests were made through coordinated operations involving both state and federal security forces under the administration led by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo. The governor emphasized that recent strategic captures have weakened the structures of violent criminal groups operating in the region. Among the detainees is Ramón “N,” known as “El R1,” who is accused of being the intellectual author behind the murder of former mayor Carlos Manzo of Uruapan. This case has already resulted in the arrest of 32 individuals. Additionally, Alfonso “N,” referred to as “La Quiringua,” was apprehended for his role in drug trafficking and extortion in areas including Los Reyes, Peribán, Tocumbo, Cotija, and Tingüindín. His capture underscores ongoing efforts to target high-profile criminals linked to organized crime networks. Another notable arrest was that of César “N,” known as “El Botox,” who was detained on January 22 along with 14 members of the criminal group known as Los Blancos de Troya. These suspects are accused of involvement in the killing of agricultural leader Bernardo Bravo. Governor Ramírz Bedolla noted that in 2021, only 17 individuals were arrested for extortion, a number significantly surpassed this year due to enhanced intelligence work and operational interventions by law enforcement agencies. He further stated that since 2024, Michoacán has ranked first nationally in combating impunity. Meanwhile, in Mexico City, police officers from the Secretariat of Public Security (SSC) detained Carlos Ramsés “N,” known as “El Ramsés,” who is suspected of participating in the murder of his brother, Jorge Jonathan Galicia Castillo, which occurred on May 24, 2024, in the Morelos neighborhood of Cuauhtémoc borough. The victim was shot and killed in the incident. Authorities obtained evidence linking Carlos Ramsés to the crime, leading to his arrest on August 11 in the Zacatenco residential area of Gustavo A. Madero borough. The SSC reported that surveillance tactics, including fixed and mobile checkpoints, enabled the successful execution of the arrest based on a court order issued by a Judge of the Accusatory Process System. The detained individual is associated with a criminal group primarily active in the city center, engaged in narcotics distribution. The Secretariat of Public Security’s head, Pablo Vázquez, confirmed that the suspect is connected to the Union de Tepito gang, which operates in the central district. According to judicial sources, the suspect is likely part of a group responsible for generating violence in the capital. Furthermore, the victim, Jorge Jonathan Galicia Castillo, was reportedly affiliated with another criminal faction called “Los Pichis,” allegedly involved in illicit activities in the Tepito area. Separately, in Michoacán, 12 individuals have been detained for extorting transporters and avocado producers in regions such as Uruapan and Ziracuaretiro. These arrests reflect continued efforts by law enforcement to address extortion cases affecting local economies. The measures taken by authorities aim to restore safety and stability within communities impacted by criminal activity. As investigations continue, more details regarding the extent of these operations and their long-term impact on public safety are expected to emerge.
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.
Become a Supporter
MX
