### SEDENA Arrests ‘El Piyi’, Key Hitman Chief of ‘Los Chapitos’ in Culiacán
Culiacán, Sinaloa – On September 19, 2024, the Mexican Secretariat of National Defense (SEDENA) conducted a successful operation leading to the capture of Mario Alexander Gámez Cuevas, widely known as “El Piyi.” El Piyi is alleged to be one of the top hitmen and head of security for the group ‘Los Chapitos.’ This faction is led by the sons of notorious drug lord Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, including Iván Archivaldo Guzmán Salazar, Jesús Alfredo Guzmán Salazar, Joaquín Guzmán López, and Ovidio Guzmán López.
El Piyi was detained in a military operation in the northwestern part of Culiacán de Rosales, along with six of his associates. He is reportedly known for instigating violence against rival factions, particularly the group led by Ismael Zambada Sicairos, also known as “El Mayito Flaco.”
The arrest is part of the ongoing efforts by the Mexican Army and National Guard to curb the activities of organized crime groups. El Piyi’s close association with Néstor Isidro Pérez Salas, alias “Nini,” who was previously the chief hitman for ‘Los Chapitos,’ further accentuates his significance within the criminal organization. Nini was captured on November 22, 2023, during a federal operation and subsequently extradited to the United States to face multiple charges.
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### Related News
**Violent Clashes Between Drug Cartels and Mexican Armed Forces on the Rise**
In recent months, clashes between various drug cartels and Mexican armed forces have escalated, significantly impacting regions like Sinaloa. According to recent reports, these confrontations often arise from turf wars and leadership disputes within criminal organizations.
Authorities have implemented increased security measures and community outreach programs to mitigate the violence influencing local populations. The arrest of significant figures like El Piyi and Nini marks a substantial effort by law enforcement to weaken the operational capabilities of these cartels.
Despite these efforts, the road to restoring peace remains challenging. Analysts suggest that continuous international cooperation and comprehensive anti-crime strategies will be crucial in the long-term battle against organized crime in Mexico.