Mexican authorities conducted a major operation against Ángel Chávez Ponce, alias 'El Camaleón', a regional leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The operation, involving federal and state forces with army support, took place in the state of Michoacán. During the shootout, two presumed sicarios were killed. In response, cartel members set up roadblocks in at least 16 municipalities, burning more than 15 vehicles. The state government confirmed blockades on state and federal highways in cities like Pátzcuaro, Tzintzuntzan, Quiroga, Morelia, and others. The blockades were removed around 14:00 local time. The operation to capture 'El Camaleón', who is accused of murdering the police chief of Pátzcuaro, continues. Last week, the Mexican government launched a major offensive against the CJNG and at least twelve other drug cartels operating in Michoacan state.
'El Camaleón' was arrested in 2024 on suspicion of murdering Pátzcuaro police chief Cristal García Hurtado. He has previously been linked to the criminal groups Los Viagras and Pueblos Unidos.
