Mexican security forces have arrested one of the top commanders of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), Audias Flores, known as 'El Jardinero', who was captured while attempting to hide in a drainage ditch. The arrest was announced by Mexico's navy, which led the operation, and footage shared on social media shows the moment of his capture.
Background of the Arrest
Flores, a regional commander who controlled significant CJNG territory along Mexico's Pacific coast, was considered a potential successor to Nemesio Oseguera, alias 'El Mencho', who was killed in a security operation in February. Security forces surrounded a cabin approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) north of the popular resort city of Puerto Vallarta, where Flores was being protected by a perimeter of about 30 pickup trucks and 60 gunmen, according to a press release from the navy.
Details of the Operation
The operation involved special forces who moved in on the cabin. Flores' escorts scattered as a diversion, but he was located as he tried to hide in a drainage ditch. The navy confirmed that the arrest was carried out without any casualties. The capture of 'El Jardinero' is a significant blow to the CJNG, one of Mexico's most powerful and violent drug cartels.
- Flores was a key figure in the cartel's operations along the Pacific coast.
- He was considered a potential successor to the cartel's former leader, 'El Mencho'.
- The operation involved a large security force and resulted in no injuries.
This arrest marks another major success for Mexican authorities in their ongoing battle against drug cartels. The CJNG has been responsible for widespread violence and drug trafficking, and the capture of a high-ranking commander like Flores is expected to disrupt their operations.
