Two Guatemalans Linked to CJNG to Stand Trial

“Sol Prendido” for Borderland Beat 

Two Guatemalans linked to the CJNG will face legal proceedings in Mexico after being arrested with weapons exclusively used by the Army, in a case that once again highlights the international dimension of organized crime and security cooperation. Federal authorities confirmed that the two detainees will remain in pre-trial detention while the trial against them proceeds.

The Attorney General's Office (FGR) reported that the defendants, identified as Pedro Pakim and Leonardo Choc Ical, both Guatemalan nationals, were charged for their alleged involvement in crimes related to the possession of firearms, cartridges, and magazines reserved for the Armed Forces.

Arrest of 2 Guatemalans after joint operation in Michoacán

The capture of the Guatemalans linked to the CJNG occurred in the municipality of Tangancícuaro, Michoacán, as a result of a coordinated operation between the Security Cabinet of the Mexican Government and state authorities. According to the FGR, National Guard elements detected the alleged criminals during patrol duties in the region.

During the operation, the perpetrators allegedly participated in an armed attack against National Guard personnel, an incident that resulted in the death of one of the federal officers. This attack was key to strengthening the investigation file and justifying the criminal prosecution against them.

Weapons and equipment seized during the arrest

At the time of their apprehension, authorities seized an arsenal considered for the exclusive use of the Army, which aggravates the legal situation of the detainees. Among the confiscated items are:

Two firearms

Seven magazines

111 cartridges

A tactical vest with the CJNG initials

This type of weaponry is strictly prohibited for civilians, according to Mexican law, due to its high firepower and its use in military and national security operations.

Legal proceedings and mandatory pre-trial detention

Following the arrest, the Federal Public Prosecutor's Office, attached to the Specialized Regional Control Prosecutor's Office (FECOR) in Michoacán, presented the necessary evidence to a control judge. Based on this evidence, the judicial authority ordered that both defendants be formally charged.

The judge also imposed the precautionary measure of mandatory pretrial detention, meaning the accused will remain incarcerated while the legal proceedings unfold. This measure is applied in cases involving serious crimes, such as those related to organized crime and the use of weapons restricted to the military.

The CJNG and its Transnational Dimension

The case of the Guatemalans linked to the CJNG reflects the transnational expansion of this criminal group, considered one of the most powerful and violent in Mexico. The Jalisco New Generation Cartel has been singled out by national and international authorities for its recruitment capabilities, its presence in several states of the country, and its connections outside of Mexican territory.

The involvement of foreign nationals in criminal activities related to Mexican cartels underscores the complexity of the criminal phenomenon and the need for international cooperation to combat it effectively.

Security and Challenges for the Mexican State

The Attorney General's Office (FGR) emphasized that these types of actions are part of a comprehensive strategy to contain violence, dismantle criminal cells, and guarantee the rule of law.  According to the authorities, the arrest and prosecution of individuals linked to criminal organizations sends a message that there will be no impunity, regardless of the nationality of those involved.

The attack against the National Guard and the loss of a federal officer also reignite the debate about the risks faced by security forces and the need to strengthen protection and equipment for those who combat organized crime in the country.

A Key Process in the Fight Against Organized Crime

The trial against these Guatemalans linked to the CJNG will be closely watched, not only because of the seriousness of the crimes charged, but also because of what it represents in the fight against criminal networks that operate beyond borders. The resolution of the case could set an important precedent in terms of security, justice, and regional cooperation.

Meanwhile, authorities reiterated their commitment to continue with coordinated operations to curb violence and weaken the structure of criminal groups that threaten the country's stability.

Tangancícuaro, Michoacán

Source: La Verdad Noticias