Mexico arrests suspect linked to drug lord Zambada's kidnapping, rector's murder

Mexican authorities have arrested a man identified as Fausto 'N', who is allegedly implicated in the kidnapping of prominent drug trafficker Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada and the murder of Héctor Melesio Cuén Ojeda, former rector of the Autonomous University of Sinaloa. The Attorney General's Office reported the capture occurred Wednesday in Mexico City.

According to the prosecution, Fausto 'N' allegedly accompanied Héctor 'N' to a meeting where Zambada was to be kidnapped. He is accused of witnessing the events and later providing false or contradictory statements to authorities, attempting to mislead the investigation. The suspect faces charges related to aiding in the cover-up of Héctor 'N's murder in July 2024 and making false declarations.

This arrest is considered a significant step in a complex case that has national security implications. The investigation is also linked to the capture of Zambada, a high-ranking Sinaloa Cartel leader, which reportedly occurred due to a betrayal by one of 'El Chapo' Guzmán's sons. The ongoing power struggle between the 'Los Chapitos' and 'Los Mayos' factions of the cartel has fueled a violent conflict since September 2024.