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Alleged cartel leader wanted by the U.S. is captured in Mexico in operation aided by DEA intelligence
CBS News • • world
Key Points:
- Mexican authorities arrested Rafael Alvarez, alias "R2," a regional leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), wanted by the U.S. for drug trafficking, homicides, and extortion.
- Alvarez led a CJNG cell involved in violent crimes targeting the avocado industry and was linked to the killing of a mayor who opposed organized crime.
- The CJNG, designated a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. in 2025, competes with the Sinaloa Cartel and has lost several top leaders since the death of its founder in February.
- Alvarez was wounded during his capture and is receiving medical care; 19 others were also arrested in the operation aided by information from the U.S. DEA.
- The U.S. Justice Department noted that Alvarez's brother, Ramon Alvarez Ayala ("R1"), was arrested earlier this year on similar charges.
