Major Blow to CJNG: Authorities Seize Properties and Arrest Key Figures in Chiapas
In a significant victory against organized crime, Mexican authorities have struck a major blow to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). In a joint operation, the Federal Public Ministry, the Mexican Army, and the Navy seized two ranches located in Cintalapa and El Vergel, Chiapas. These properties are allegedly linked to Juan Valdovinos, alias "El Wachi", a prominent member of the CJNG.
During the raid, authorities discovered an arsenal of weapons, illicit drugs, and tactical vests bearing the initials of the criminal organization. According to journalist Carlos Jiménez, Valdovinos is believed to be a high-ranking member of the CJNG.
Concurrently, authorities detained Selvin “N”, alias “El Cangrejo”, a 50-year-old Guatemalan national, in Benemérito de las Américas. "El Cangrejo" is accused of heading a transnational criminal organization dedicated to drug trafficking across the Mexico-Guatemala border. He was subsequently extradited to Guatemala to face narcotics charges.
In Tuxtla Gutiérrez, personnel from the State Attorney General’s Office and the Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection arrested nine municipal police officers and two state police officers for their alleged involvement in enforced disappearances.
Meanwhile, in Pantelhó, soldiers and state prosecutors executed a search warrant on a property, recovering seven longarms, 33 magazines, 2,863 cartridges, 42 improvised explosive devices, and 16 tactical vests.
Since taking office, Chiapas Governor Eduardo Ramírez Aguilar has overseen numerous joint operations with local, state, and federal authorities, resulting in the arrests of several suspected gang members and public officials involved in illicit activities. On December 23, narcomantas signed with the initials of the CJNG were discovered, expressing gratitude to the governor and the newly created Pakal police force for facilitating the organization’s operations in the state.
The recent turf wars in the Sierra and Frailesca regions of Chiapas highlight the ongoing battle for control of the territory, particularly near the Guatemala border. This border crossing is a vital route for smuggling drugs, weapons, and people into the United States.
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