CJNG-linked criminal cell dismantled in Veracruz and Puebla

Mexican federal and local authorities have dismantled a criminal cell allegedly linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) operating in Veracruz and Puebla. The group specialized in cargo vehicle theft and express kidnappings of drivers along the 150-D Puebla-Veracruz highway, particularly in the Esperanza region.

During an operation on the Minatitlán-Córdoba highway, joint forces including the Secretariat of the Navy (SEMAR), the National Guard, and the Attorney General's Office (FGR) intercepted two vehicles without license plates. The operation resulted in the arrest of a 36-year-old man identified as the cell leader, along with two women aged 35 and 37.

Authorities seized two short firearms, narcotics, mobile devices, and the vehicles used by the group. Investigations indicate the cell utilized a network of lookouts, or ‘halcones’, to monitor security forces and coordinate robberies. The suspects have been placed at the disposal of the Federal Public Ministry for legal proceedings.