Mexican forces capture U.S.-wanted cartel leader, sparking unrest

Mexican federal forces apprehended Alfonso Fernández Magallón, known as "Poncho," the alleged leader of the Los Reyes cartel, on Saturday. The United States had offered up to $5 million for information leading to his arrest or conviction. Magallón is wanted for alleged involvement in drug trafficking conspiracies, including methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl destined for the U.S.

Following his capture in Michoacán state, members of the criminal organization retaliated by setting up blockades and burning vehicles in the municipalities of Los Reyes and Peribán. The Secretary of Citizen Security and Protection, Omar García Harfuch, confirmed the arrest and stated that the detainee faced an arrest warrant for unlawful deprivation of liberty and rioting.

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criminals have nowhere to hide

The U.S. Department of the Treasury had previously sanctioned Fernández Magallón for his ties to Carteles Unidos, an umbrella organization under which the Los Reyes cartel operates. The Treasury also accused him of recruiting former Colombian military and police personnel to combat the rival Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).

U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Ronald Johnson, lauded the arrest, stating it sends a clear message that "criminals have nowhere to hide." He commended the Mexican Army and Security Cabinet, noting that the shared commitment between the U.S. and Mexican governments to dismantle cartels "continues to yield results."

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the shared commitment to dismantle cartels and hold violent criminals accountable continues to yield results