Mexican authorities arrested Ramon Angel, alias 'El R1,' accused of leading 'Los Rs,' a cell tied to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, and of ordering the November 2025 killing of Uruapan mayor Carlos Manzo. At least 31 people have been detained in the probe, including a 17-year-old believed to have fired at the mayor and later killed by security forces. The killing prompted nationwide protests and prompted President Claudia Sheinbaum to deploy more than 10,500 security personnel to Michoacán.
Mexico Arrests Alleged Cartel Cell Leader 'El R1' Over Uruapan Mayor's Killing
Protesters hold a banner commemorating the recently killed mayor of Uruapan, Carlos Manzo, during a protest against insecurity and corruption in the country, in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, November 15, 2025. REUTERS/Jose Luis Gonzalez
Mexico City, July 30 — Mexican authorities have arrested the suspected head of a criminal cell tied to the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) on accusations he ordered the assassination of Uruapan's mayor, officials said.
Security Minister Omar Garcia posted on X that the detained suspect, identified as Ramon Angel and known as 'El R1,' is believed to lead a local group called 'Los Rs.' Prosecutors say the cell has carried out extortion, homicide and drug trafficking operations in parts of Michoacán.
The arrest forms part of a broader investigation into the November 2025 killing of Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan, who had publicly criticized federal authorities for what he described as inaction against rising crime in his municipality. The slaying shocked the country and sparked protests over insecurity.
Authorities say at least 31 people have been detained in connection with the case. Among those identified was a 17-year-old who is believed to have fired at the mayor; security forces later shot and killed that teenager at the scene, officials said.
Manzo was succeeded as mayor by his wife, Grecia Quiroz. In response to the killing, President Claudia Sheinbaum launched a security operation in Michoacán that deployed more than 10,500 members of federal and state forces to the region.
What Officials Say
Officials described the arrest as a significant step in dismantling the local criminal cell linked to CJNG. Investigations are ongoing and authorities say they will continue efforts to locate other suspects and dismantle the group's illicit networks.
Note: Authorities have not yet released full details of the evidence against Ramon Angel, and legal proceedings are expected to follow.
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