## Federal Judge Charges “El Pelón” of “Los Chapitos” and Orders Preventive Detention
On November 25, 2024, a federal judge charged Omar Félix Loaiza, also known as “El Pelón,” who is allegedly a leading figure in the criminal organization known as “Los Chapitos” or “Los Menores.” This group is associated with Ivan Archivaldo Guzmán Salazar and his brothers, the children of notorious drug lord Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán. The decision mandates that Loaiza remain in preventive detention at the Federal Social Readaptation Center No. 11 in Hermosillo, Sonora.
According to the General Prosecutor’s Office, “El Pelón” faces charges related to organized crime, specifically drug trafficking, arms trafficking, and human trafficking. The investigation was initiated following an anonymous tip-off in 2023, revealing Loaiza’s involvement in smuggling operations between Mexico and the United States. A collaborative effort by the Mexican Federal Security Forces, including elements from the Ministry of Security, National Defense, and Navy, led to his arrest in Culiacán, Sinaloa. Loaiza is also implicated in orchestrating violent clashes in Sinaloa against rival factions, particularly “Los Mayos,” led by Ismael Zambada.
The case remains under scrutiny as the judicial process unfolds, with the judge granting a three-month period for complementary investigations. Loaiza’s arrest and the resulting charges underscore the ongoing efforts by Mexican authorities to curb organized crime and drug trafficking activities along the northern border.
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### Secondary Article: Security Crackdown Intensifies in Northern Mexico
In light of the arrest of Omar Félix Loaiza, authorities are ramping up security measures in Northern Mexico. Additional reports indicate that the government is intensifying its efforts to dismantle the operations of various criminal organizations involved in drug production and distribution across the region.
Recently, heightened security operations have been observed in states like Sonora and Sinaloa, where federal forces are increasing their presence to prevent further violent confrontations between rival drug cartels. Local residents are witnessing a more substantial deployment of federal assets, including both ground and aerial surveillance, targeting identified hotspots of criminal activity.
The Mexican government, committed to reducing violence and crime-related incidents, reiterates its dedication to working closely with its international counterparts to address security challenges. This initiative follows significant incidents of violence linked to organized crime, which have highlighted the need for comprehensive tactical responses to stem the tide of illicit activities and restore order and safety to affected communities.
As Mexico continues to confront the complex issues posed by organized crime, these efforts represent a crucial step towards improved regional stability and international cooperation against transnational criminal networks.