The murder of Uruapan’s mayor, Carlos Manzo Rodríguez, which occurred last Saturday during the opening of the Festival of Candles, was allegedly planned by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
This was revealed in an investigation by El País, which cites sources connected to the investigation into Manzo’s murder. The execution was reportedly ordered after the capture of René Belmonte, alias “El Rino,” the alleged CJNG plaza boss in that region, which took place last August.
“El Rino” was one of the close associates of the brothers Ramón and Rafael Álvarez Ayala, known as “R-1” and “R-2,” partners of the cartel led by Nemesio Oseguera “El Mencho,” who maintain influence in various areas of Michoacán.
According to the media outlet, Ramón and Rafael Álvarez Ayala are related to past administrations led by the PRD party in the state, specifically those of former governors Silvano Aureoles (2015-2021), Leonel Godoy (2008-2012), and Lázaro Cárdenas Batel (2002-2008), who currently serves as Chief of Staff to the President.
Following Belmonte’s capture in August, Manzo requested support from the government led by Claudia Sheinbaum and from state authorities.
The operation that resulted in the arrest of “El Rino” was considered a victory for Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla’s administration, but it also marked the beginning of a series of threats against the mayor.
Weeks later, the attack against the mayor was carried out in front of his family and dozens of attendees.
“This is a high-profile arrest; he’s not just anyone. There are indications, there’s evidence that armed individuals very close to this person operate in the Uruapan region,” Manzo said regarding the capture of ‘El Rino’.
Journalistic reports suggest that the person who carried out Manzo’s murder is linked to the CJNG cartel. Additionally, journalist Luis Chaparro shared in an interview with Azucena Uresti that the cartel allegedly offered 50,000 pesos to two hitmen to carry out the attack.
Source: politico
