**Ex-Security Chief of “El Chapo” Faces Legal Proceedings; Detained Without Bail**
In a significant development, a federal judge has initiated legal proceedings against Marcelino Ticante Castro, better known as “El Fantasma,” for his alleged involvement in crimes related to carrying firearms and ammunition designated exclusively for the Armed Forces. Apprehended on November 12, 2024, Ticante Castro, a recognized member of the Sinaloa Cartel, previously served as the security chief for notorious drug lord Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán. Alongside three of his accomplices, he has been ordered to remain in preventive detention at the Aguaruto Penitentiary Center.
During the initial hearing, the Federal Public Prosecutor provided sufficient evidence leading to the indictment of “El Fantasma” and his associates. The Public Prosecutor’s Office has been granted a two-month period to conduct a supplementary investigation, as stated by the Federal General Prosecutor’s Office.
Ticante Castro’s capture on November 3, 2024, followed a pursuit by Mexican Army personnel near Costa Rica, Sinaloa. During the operation, law enforcement officers found a vehicle with its doors ajar and witnessed two men carrying long firearms, initiating a chase. Upon catching up with the suspects, military personnel faced an aggressive response but ultimately subdued the situation, leading to the arrest of the alleged Sinaloa Cartel members. Authorities seized a large arsenal, including eight rifles, two machine guns, a handgun, and over 2,500 cartridges, all deemed for exclusive military use.
Gerardo Mérida Sánchez, the state’s Security Secretary, confirmed that “El Fantasma” was injured during his arrest and was subsequently taken to a hospital in Sinaloa’s capital. Notably, Ticante Castro’s history with the law dates back to 2013, when he was first arrested and convicted for similar offenses, serving nearly 12 years in prison. Earlier this year, he was released after successfully appealing for early freedom under the National Law of Penal Execution.
**Secondary Article: Arrest of High-Profile Criminal Poses Questions on Security Measures**
The recent arrest of Marcelino Ticante Castro, former head of security for drug lord “El Chapo,” underscores ongoing challenges in Mexico’s battle against organized crime. The apprehension, following his early release earlier this year, raises critical questions about the effectiveness of legal and penal protocols in handling high-profile criminals.
Ticante Castro’s re-arrest occurs amid increased scrutiny of Mexico’s judiciary and law enforcement practices, especially concerning powerful cartel figures. The incident has sparked debate over the measures needed to ensure that individuals involved in serious criminal activities remain effectively monitored and restricted from returning to illicit operations.
Experts suggest that this case highlights a gap in current systems, calling for stricter oversight and enhanced collaboration between military and judicial entities to prevent similar recurrences. The outcome of this case could influence future policies and potentially lead to reforms aimed at fortifying Mexico’s legal framework against organized crime networks.
As the investigation into “El Fantasma” and his associates continues, it serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced in combating deeply entrenched cartels and ensuring that justice is adequately served.