Two alleged Tláhuac Cartel members arrested in Mexico City for drug dealing, extortion, and property seizure

Mexican authorities have arrested two alleged members of the Tláhuac Cartel in Mexico City, identifying them as Mario Alberto, known as "El Minimi," and José Israel, alias "El Pitufo."

The arrests followed three searches conducted in the Tláhuac borough, where police, in coordination with the Attorney General's Office and supported by the Navy and National Guard, apprehended the suspects. Investigations indicate that both men were part of a criminal cell involved in drug sales and distribution, extorting local businesses, and illegally seizing properties.

During the operations, law enforcement seized 95 doses of suspected cocaine, 100 doses of alleged methamphetamine, and 100 small bags of possible marijuana from "El Minimi's" location. A second search yielded 60 packages of apparent cocaine and three kilograms of marijuana. At "El Pitufo's" residence, authorities confiscated four kilograms of cocaine base, 875 grams of powdered cocaine, a handgun, and a cell phone.

Authorities reported that Mario Alberto has prior arrests, including for bribery in 2008 and gang-related robbery in 2011 and 2013. Both detainees are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The seized items and the arrested individuals have been handed over to the Public Ministry for further investigation.