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Top Jalisco Cartel Commander 'El Jardinero' Arrested in Mexico

From Jerusalem Post · (7m ago) English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Mexican special forces arrested Audias Flores, alias 'El Jardinero,' a top commander of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), in Nayarit.
  • Flores was considered a potential successor to former CJNG leader 'El Mencho' and controlled significant cartel territory.
  • The arrest, a result of 19 months of surveillance and intelligence from US authorities, occurred without a shot fired.

The successful apprehension of Audias Flores, known as 'El Jardinero,' marks a significant blow to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). This operation, meticulously planned and executed by Mexican special forces with crucial intelligence support from US authorities, underscores Mexico's ongoing commitment to dismantling powerful criminal organizations that destabilize the nation.

Flores's role as a regional commander and his potential succession to the cartel's former leader, 'El Mencho,' made his capture particularly impactful. His control over vast territories along the Pacific coast highlights the extensive reach and influence of the CJNG. The fact that the operation was carried out with surgical precision, without a single shot fired, speaks volumes about the professionalism and capabilities of Mexico's security forces.

The operation was carried out with surgical precision without a single shot being fired.

โ€” Mexico's NavyDescribing the precision and non-violent nature of the operation that led to Flores's arrest.

While the arrest is a victory for law enforcement, the fight against drug cartels remains a complex and persistent challenge. The CJNG has proven resilient, and the void left by Flores's capture may be filled by others. However, this operation sends a clear message that no leader is beyond reach and that international cooperation is vital in combating transnational organized crime. The focus now shifts to the legal proceedings and potential extradition of Flores to the US, where he is wanted by authorities.

The arrest will have a bigger effect on CJNG operations than El Mencho being taken out.

โ€” Carlos OlivoAn expert on the CJNG, commenting on the significance of Flores's capture.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jerusalem Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.