Top Mexican Cartel Leader ‘El Jardinero’ Captured While Hiding in Ditch

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Mexico City: Mexican authorities have captured a senior commander of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel, known as “El Jardinero,” in a major security operation.

The suspect, identified as Audias Flores Silva, was found hiding in a drainage ditch after security forces closed in on his location in the western state of Nayarit. His armed escorts reportedly tried to distract authorities, but he was quickly located and arrested.

Officials said the operation was carried out with precision and without gunfire, despite the heavy presence of armed guards protecting him. Flores was considered a key figure in the cartel, overseeing drug production, trafficking routes and operations linked to the United States.

He was also seen as a possible successor to the cartel’s former leader, making his arrest a significant blow to the group’s leadership. Authorities believe the capture could disrupt parts of the cartel’s operations, though such groups often regroup quickly.

The arrest highlights ongoing efforts by Mexican forces to weaken organised crime networks, even as violence linked to drug cartels continues to challenge security in the country.