Mexican authorities have captured three men with strong ties to drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman's brother.
The Mexican Ministry of Defense said that the operation was done in cooperation with U.S. intelligence, which provided critical information.
CBS News reported that the operation was conducted near Tamazula, which borders Durango and Sinaloa. In total, 10 members of the Sinaloa cartel were captured in the raid.
That faction of the Sinaloa cartel is led by Aureliano Guzman Loera, known as "El Guano." According to the Mexican Ministry of Defense, those captured included El Guano's right-hand man and most trusted adviser.
Also captured was an associate who assisted in the financial and logistics of cartel operations, including the purchase of weapons, drones, and explosives. A third close associate was described as being the head of security and in charge of the "confrontation with antagonistic groups."
The Mexican Ministry of Defense also said that authorities captured:
- 1 Mini machine gun Cal. 5.56 mm
- 10 long guns of different calibers
- 1 handgun
- Explosive devices
- Various magazines and cartridges
The joint operation was carried out by the Mexican Army, the National Guard, and the Navy, within the framework of the National Public Security Strategy.
CBS News reported that Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman currently is serving a life sentence in the U.S. Also, two of his sons are currently awaiting trial on a variety of charges.
In Guzman's absence, conflict has arisen over control of the Sinaloa cartel. The conflict has pitted Guzman associates against groups with ties to Ismael Zambada. CBS News reported that Zambada co-founded the group and also is awaiting trial in the U.S.
