Four Arrested in Sonora for Illegal Loans Using 1,500 Bank Cards

Authorities in Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico, have arrested four people in connection with an alleged illegal loan operation that utilized around 1,500 bank cards. The arrests occurred after a raid on a property in the Sal Si Puedes neighborhood, where law enforcement also seized firearms, narcotics, cell phones, and various documents.

The operation, conducted on July 5, was part of an ongoing investigation into serious crimes, including aggravated unlawful deprivation of liberty, aggravated robbery, and death threats. These charges stem from a complaint filed by a 41-year-old woman who reported being held captive, physically assaulted with a firearm, and threatened along with her family.

During the search, officers detained Isaías “N,” 37, along with Rafael “N,” Martín Arturo “N,” and Luis Antonio “N.” They were found in possession of 10 small packages containing cocaine, leading to their arrest for drug-related offenses. The seized items, including a .357 Taurus revolver, a .22 caliber carbine, a pellet rifle, ammunition, and the numerous bank cards, have been incorporated into the ongoing investigation.

Investigators believe Isaías “N” was the alleged operator of the scheme. He reportedly held onto debtors' bank cards and personal identification numbers (PINs) as collateral for loans. He then allegedly made weekly withdrawals to collect interest. The Sonora Attorney General's Office is continuing its investigation to determine if the arrested individuals were involved in other criminal activities and to identify any additional victims of their alleged operations.