OPERATION ENJAMBRE IN PUEBLA LEADS TO ARREST OF MAYORS AND FORMER PUBLIC SAFETY DIRECTOR

In a coordinated effort to dismantle criminal networks operating along critical transport corridors, Mexican authorities conducted a series of targeted raids in the state of Puebla on September 7, 2026. The intelligence-led initiative, designated as Operation Enjambre, targeted a regional structure allegedly involved in high-impact offenses, including heavy cargo theft, extortion, and kidnapping along the strategic Puebla–Veracruz highway, also known as the Orizaba–Puebla route.

Security officials confirmed that federal and state agencies carried out 23 search warrants in the municipality of Esperanza, Puebla. The joint action was executed through cooperation between the Fiscalía General de la República, the Guardia Nacional, and the Secretaría de Seguridad y Protección Ciudadana.

As a result of these interventions, nine individuals were taken into custody. Among those detained are key public figures and municipal employees: Isaac “N”, the mayor of Esperanza; Abigail “N”, former municipal Director of Public Safety; Manuel “N”, brother of the mayor, alleged to be linked to the criminal organization; Cristhian Fernando “N”, a public servant in the Urban Development department; Verónica “N”, an employee of Caminos y Puentes Federales; as well as municipal employees Efraín “N” and Eduardo “N”. Two additional individuals connected to the ongoing investigation were also apprehended.

During the execution of the search warrants, security forces confiscated a substantial array of tactical equipment and weaponry, including:

• 35 firearms
• Two Barrett rifles
• 52 ammunition magazines
• 11 vehicles (including four armored units and one with artisanal armor and a turret)
• Tactical clothing
• One drone
• One signal jammer

Authorities noted that this operation follows the recent arrest of Said “N”, the mayor of Tepeyahualco, who faces allegations regarding express kidnapping and violent vehicle theft. Officials emphasized that these enforcement actions directly weaken local protection networks and are expected to significantly reduce highway robberies and extortion affecting commercial transport and passenger safety across the region.