Mexican security forces have arrested an alleged leader of a powerful drug cartel faction, along with 19 of his associates, following a targeted operation in the city of Zapopan, Jalisco. The raid, which occurred on November 8, was conducted by the Mexican Navy’s special operations unit in coordination with the national security ministry. The operation was bolstered by intelligence provided by Mexico’s National Intelligence Center and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
The primary suspect, identified by authorities as Rafael “N” and known by the alias “R2,” is alleged to be a key figure within the Los Rs faction of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). According to Mexican Security Minister Omar Garcia Harfuch, the group has been involved in a range of criminal activities, including drug trafficking, kidnapping, homicide, and illegal detention. Minister Harfuch noted that the group frequently targeted business owners and agricultural workers.
The arrest was marked by a violent confrontation between security forces and members of the cartel. The Mexican Navy reported that its personnel were met with gunfire during the mission and responded in kind. Both the suspect, R2, and a naval officer sustained injuries during the exchange of fire and were provided with medical treatment. Authorities subsequently confirmed that the situation was brought under control following the firefight.
R2 is currently facing an active arrest warrant in Mexico for charges of aggravated homicide. Furthermore, he is wanted in the United States on federal charges related to firearms and international drug trafficking. The DEA confirmed that he has been sought by American authorities for his role in these criminal enterprises. Because of official protocols regarding the naming of suspects, Mexican authorities have identified him using only his first name followed by “N.”
A major focus of the investigation into R2 involves the November 2025 killing of Carlos Manzo, the former mayor of Uruapan, Michoacan. Manzo was fatally shot while attending a public Day of the Dead celebration with his family. The 40-year-old politician was widely recognized for his vocal opposition to organized crime and his persistent demands for government action against the cartels operating within his municipality. Following his death, his wife, Grecia Quiroz, assumed the position of mayor.
The region of Uruapan serves as a significant hub for Mexico’s lucrative avocado industry, which has frequently been targeted by criminal groups. Cartels have historically sought to exert control over agricultural regions by imposing “protection money” on producers, traders, and transport networks. Those who refuse to comply with these extortion demands often face severe threats, kidnapping, or physical violence. By targeting this industry, criminal groups attempt to capitalize on the sector's high economic value.
The arrest of R2 represents a continued effort by Mexican authorities to dismantle the Los Rs faction. Earlier, in July 2026, officials arrested Ramon Angel Alvarez Ayala, also known as “R1,” who was suspected of masterminding the assassination of Carlos Manzo. The latest developments reflect a broader, persistent campaign by Mexican law enforcement to address the influence of transnational criminal organizations that continue to threaten the security of both citizens and key industries across the country.
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