Mexican security forces dismantle 'Los Sierra' gang and launch operation to block its regrouping

In Michoacán, the Fiscalía General del Estado (FGE) announced the capture of the leaders of the criminal group known as “Los Sierra.” On 25 June, Ernesto Rafael “Sierra 1” and Alfredo “Sierra 2” were arrested in Morelia after coordinated raids by the Secretaría de Seguridad Pública (SSP), the Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional, the Guardia Nacional and other agencies. The operations also led to the seizure of firearms, vehicles, explosives, approximately 27 g of methamphetamine and electronic devices.

The following day, nine additional suspects, posing as police and driving vehicles marked with official insignia, were detained in Zinapécuaro. Authorities recovered further weapons, ammunition, drugs and equipment used for illicit sales and falsification of documents.

To prevent any attempt by remaining members to reconstitute the organization, the SSP deployed a continuous security presence in Morelia and Villa Madero. The operation, coordinated with the Guardias Civiles, the National Defense Secretariat, the FGE and the National Guard, aims to quickly neutralise any efforts to reorganise the group.