In a significant operation in Michoacán, Victor “R,” 28, was apprehended by law enforcement. Authorities identified him as a member of Los Viagras, a notorious criminal group. He was captured in the Tenencia Felipe Carrillo Puerto, La Ruana, in Buenavista municipality. Known as El Chino, he was found in possession of two large caliber rifles, 165 cartridges, and magazines for long guns.
Victor “R” is believed to operate under Heladio Cisneros, alias La Sirena, a leading figure in the Viagras group. This group is known for its stronghold in areas like Buenavista and La Ruana.
Ties to Extensive Criminal Activities
Los Viagras have been implicated in various crimes, including kidnapping, homicides, drug trafficking, extortion, and illegal possession of firearms. Their alleged involvement in the murder of former vigilante leader Hipolito Mora last June further underscores their criminal impact. The capture of Victor “R” involved coordinated efforts from the National Guard, the Army, and the Civil Guard.
The Viagras’ Criminal Methods and Extortion Activities
Earlier on September 11, three associates of Los Viagras, identified as José Luis “N,” Jesús “N,” and Luis Alberto “N,” were arrested in La Ruana with high-powered weapons and tactical equipment. Apart from their violent activities, the group is also known for extorting lemon growers and causing widespread violence in La Ruana and Buenavista.
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In a related development, eight Colombians linked to Los Viagras were detained for their involvement in making explosives for drone attacks. These attacks are part of a worrying trend among criminal groups, including the Familia Michoacana and the Jalisco Cartel – New Generation (CJNG), who use drones to intimidate the populace.
Drone Attacks: A New Tactical Challenge
One particularly alarming incident involved a drone attack during an event in La Ruana where Guadalupe Mora, brother of Hipolito Mora, was present. The attack, captured on video, occurred while Guadalupe Mora was delivering a speech, marking a disturbing escalation in the tactics of criminal groups.
Michoacan Governor Alfredo Ramirez Bedolla acknowledged the involvement of foreign nationals in these criminal activities, highlighting the complexity and international nature of these criminal operations.