Mafia war between 'Macho' and 'Julito' sparks deadly attack in Tavaí

A violent attack in the Tavaí district of Caazapá, Paraguay, has been identified by security agencies as the latest development in an ongoing feud between prominent mafia leaders Felipe Santiago Acosta Riveros, known as "Macho," and Julio César Sanabria Torales, alias "Julito."

The incident resulted in the deaths of hitman Julio César Ortega Servián, 26, and bodyguard Justo Pastor Bogado Ortigoza, 29. Investigators believe Macho, a major marijuana trafficker in the Canindeyú department, orchestrated the attack. He allegedly consolidated his power by eliminating rival organizations, including the clan led by Cristino Díaz Méndez.

Survivors of Macho's crackdown reportedly fled to Caazapá, where they began operating under Julito's command. This alliance intensified the conflict between the two crime bosses. Macho, despite being a target of military and police operations, is believed to have organized the recent assault in Tavaí.

The dispute escalated in mid-2023 in the Villarrica and Caazapá regions. Previously, in February 2024, Julito allegedly attempted to assassinate Macho in Yby Pytã, but the plan failed, and the hitman, Cristino Díaz Méndez, was killed by Macho's men. Macho had reportedly been tipped off about the planned attack.

Security forces have intensified efforts to apprehend Macho, who has evaded capture due to superior firepower and manpower. The ongoing war between Macho and Julito has already claimed several lives, with the recent attack in Tavaí marking a grim escalation.