Hidalgo governor: CJNG arrests don't prove state operations

Hidalgo Governor Julio Menchaca Salazar has stated that recent federal arrests of alleged members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) do not definitively prove the organization operates within the state. The governor emphasized that the captures alone are insufficient to conclude the cartel's presence.

Federal security forces recently carried out simultaneous operations in Hidalgo, Jalisco, and Michoacán. These actions resulted in the seizure of vehicles, weapons, drugs, and exotic animals. Menchaca confirmed that the Hidalgo government was aware of the operations and collaborated with federal authorities when necessary.

Regarding the arrested individuals, Menchaca explained that it is unclear whether they were actively operating in Hidalgo or simply using the state as a residence due to its prevailing security conditions. He acknowledged the significant national challenge posed by criminal activity but assured that federal and state governments are continuously working to combat criminal organizations.

The governor noted that state police maintain their own operations, while federal intelligence drives the security cabinet's actions. He deferred to federal authorities for further details on the specific captures and avoided linking the operations to any pressure from the United States government.