Mexico arrests CJNG cell leader R2 in Jalisco operation
Rafael Álvarez Ayala, alias R2, was captured in Zapopan after an armed confrontation and is wanted for extradition to the United States.
KEY POINTS
- Rafael Álvarez Ayala, alias R2, was arrested in Zapopan, Jalisco
- Nineteen additional suspects were detained in the same operation
- R2 is wanted for extradition to the United States and faces a homicide warrant in Michoacán
- The United States accuses R2 and his brother Ramón of drug conspiracy dating back to 2004
Mexican authorities arrested Rafael Álvarez Ayala, alias R2, in Zapopan, Jalisco, on Sunday. The operation was led by the Navy and the Security and Citizen Protection Secretariat, with support from Army Special Forces.
During an armed confrontation, R2 and one agent were injured. R2 is currently receiving medical care.
“The cell is related to extortions, drug trafficking, homicides, kidnappings and attacks against authorities.”
Authorities identified R2 as the leader of the Los Rs cell, linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. He is allegedly connected to the homicide of Carlos Manzo, mayor of Uruapan.
Alongside R2, 19 other people were detained. No further details about them have been provided.
R2 faces an active arrest warrant for qualified homicide issued by the First Criminal Court of Apatzingán, Michoacán. He also has an extradition order to the United States.
The United States identifies R2 and his brother Ramón Álvarez Ayala, alias R1, as regional CJNG commanders in Michoacán. Charges against the brothers include conspiracy to manufacture and distribute narcotics from approximately 2004 to at least December 2023.
If convicted in the United States, each brother faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 40 years in prison.
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