Suspected 'armed wing' of 'El Monstruo' arrested in Peru after multiple releases

Authorities in Peru have apprehended Jorge Aldair Quiñónez Velásquez, known by the alias 'Chucho,' who is considered a key operative for the criminal group Los Injertos del Norte. The arrest took place on Monday afternoon in the Comas district. Police suspect 'Chucho' has ties to Erick Moreno Hernández, also known as 'El Monstruo,' a figure allegedly leading the criminal organization.

The operation was conducted by agents from the Division of Investigation of Extortions. During the arrest at a property, investigators discovered evidence believed to have been used in illicit activities. According to police investigations, 'Chucho' is implicated in demanding protection money from merchants and transport operators in northern Lima. His legal situation was further complicated at the time of his capture, as he had three active arrest warrants for drug micro-trafficking.

This is not the first time Quiñónez Velásquez has been detained. In October 2024, police found a significant quantity of ammunition and a magazine during a previous arrest at another property in Comas. At that time, agents also linked him to an individual known as 'Yojairo,' who was under investigation for illegal firearms manufacturing, trafficking, and possession. Despite the evidence, 'Chucho' was released under circumstances that remain unclear.

Four months after that incident, operatives from the Division of Investigation of Organized Crime (Dirincri) arrested him again. During that operation, police found several sticks of dynamite at the residence. Nevertheless, he was released once more. In the latest operation, two other individuals, Maryory Nicole Cabezas Teodoro and another alleged accomplice, were also detained and are currently under investigation for their potential involvement with the criminal organization. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the extent of their responsibility and whether 'Chucho' was still operating for the network linked to 'El Monstruo.'