Friday, February 9, 2018

Mexico: Zetas drugs cartel leader caught

A screen shows a picture of cartel leader Jose Maria Guizar Valencia (R) during a press conference in Mexico City, 9 February 2018

A leader of the notorious Zetas drug cartel has been caught in Mexico City, according to Mexican authorities.

José María Guízar Valencia is wanted in the US, which had offered a $5m (£3.6m) reward for his capture.

Known as Z-43, he is a dual US-Mexican citizen and is thought to have run the Zeta's south-eastern operations.

The US state department said he was responsible for "importing thousands of kilograms of cocaine and methamphetamine to the US every year".

On its website, it said the Zetas "have murdered an untold number of Guatemalan civilians during the systematic overtake of the Guatemalan border region with Mexico during recent years".


A guide to Mexico's most wanted
The alleged kingpin was arrested in Mexico City's Roma neighbourhood, which is known for its hip bars and restaurants.

Image caption
The US state department website describes the drug cartel leader
In 2012, the Zetas was considered the largest drugs gang in Mexico.

However, they have lost ground in recent years, as others, notably the Jalisco New Generation, have expanded to take their east-coast territory.

Arrests of other leaders have also weakened the group, causing internal divisions.

No comments:

Post a Comment

DONATE