El Chaparrito’s Fall: Major CJNG Leader Captured in Coordinated Strike

Mica for cartelinsider.com

Aldrin Miguel Jarquin Jarquin, also known as “El Chaparrito,” was arrested on August 18 in a joint operation by the Mexican Navy and the Specialized Prosecutor’s Office for Organized Crime (FEMDO). Known for his close ties with CJNG leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias “El Mencho,” “El Chaparrito” is recognized as one of the cartel’s most influential figures. His capture is considered a significant blow to the CJNG, particularly regarding its operations in the port of Manzanillo, a strategic hub for drug trafficking.

The operation involved coordinated raids in Zapopan, Guadalajara, Mérida, and other locations, leading to the arrest of “El Chaparrito,” who was responsible for CJNG operations across several Mexican states, including Colima, Jalisco, Yucatan, and Quintana Roo. Alongside him, two close associates were also detained. “El Chaparrito” holds a prominent position within the CJNG hierarchy, ranking just below leaders like “El Mencho” and Julio Alberto Castillo Rodríguez, alias “El Chorro,” the latter being El Mencho’s son-in-law.

“El Chaparrito” has been on the radar of both Mexican and U.S. authorities for some time. The U.S. Department of Treasury and the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) blacklisted him and his brother in 2021 for their role within the CJNG. He was previously arrested in 2022 for controlling operations in Manzanillo, a key entry point for drugs. Despite this, a judicial decision allowed his release, enabling him to evade justice and continue his criminal activities, underscoring the systemic challenges in prosecuting high-profile cartel figures.

The port of Manzanillo plays a vital role in the CJNG’s operations, and “El Chaparrito” was a central figure in managing this strategic point. His arrest disrupts the cartel’s control over drug trafficking routes and could trigger internal struggles within the CJNG as rivals vie for power. The capture also raises the possibility of dismantling the network of contacts and collaborators he oversaw, potentially destabilizing the cartel’s influence in the region and increasing detection risks for future drug shipments.

Thanks for reading!

Mica

Email: mica@cartelinsider.com

Follow: https://twitter.com/cartelinsider1