The Mexican authorities announced on Sunday the arrest of a regional leader of the Jalisco Nueva Generación cartel, one of the country's two main armed groups, held in collaboration with the United States.
© Lusa
09/11/2026
by
Lusa
Rafael Álvarez (R2)
Amexican authorities announced on Sunday the arrest of a regional leader of the Jalisco Nueva Generación cartel, one of the country's two main armed groups, held in collaboration with the United States.
Jalisco Nueva Generación is on the list of terrorist organizations in the United States and is known to carry out violent actions and attacks against authorities.
The group disputes drug trafficking for the United States with the Sinaloa cartel. Several of the cartel leaders have been captured since the death of the founder, Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera, during a military operation in February.
Authorities announced the arrest of Rafael Álvarez, known as “R2”, who led a cell involved in homicides, drug trafficking and extortions against avocado producers.
Álvarez is also linked to the murder of Carlos Manzo, a mayor known for his stance in the fight against organized crime.
The drug dealer was located thanks to information provided by the U.S. anti-drug agency, the DEA, reported on social network X Mexico Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch.
According to Harfuch, 19 other people were also arrested. “R2” was injured during the operation and is receiving medical assistance, he added.
Since returning to the White House, American President Donald Trump has been pushing Mexico to step up arrests and stop drug trafficking.