Guerrero authorities release 66 officers following security raids

Authorities in Guerrero, Mexico, have released 66 individuals following security operations in the municipalities of Tlapa de Comonfort, Chilapa de Álvarez, and Atlixtac. While initial reports from the National Security Cabinet suggested the detainees were part of a network of 65 fake police officers and an official involved in extortion, the State Attorney General's Office (FGE) later clarified that the 66 individuals successfully verified their identities and status as municipal and traffic police officers.

Despite the releases, legal actions are proceeding against several individuals. Three officers are being referred to judicial authorities for the probable crimes of deprivation of liberty and abuse of authority. One additional person faces charges for usurpation of functions, misuse of uniforms, and possession of objects capable of aggression.

Furthermore, Simitrio Álvarez Benito, the Director of Mobility and Transport for Tlapa, remains in custody. He has been placed at the disposal of the competent jurisdictional authority for his probable involvement in aggravated extortion. The operations, which involved the Mexican Army and the National Guard, resulted in the seizure of 284 firearms, 44 cell phones, and four official vehicles.