Violence in Mexico continues, and on the morning of Monday, February 3rd, a shooting occurred in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, resulting in the detention of Ricardo Gonzalez, also known as "El Ricky," who is the regional chief of the Northeastern Cartel. This operation was carried out jointly by SEDENA, the Navy Secretariat, and the Public Security Secretariat, according to Omar García Harfuch, head of the latter department.
Due to the violence unleashed in the border city, Nuevo Laredo International Airport decided to suspend all flights until further notice, as several points in the city were blocked by armed men. The airline Viva issued a statement explaining that this preventive measure aimed to ensure the safety of passengers, crews, and operational personnel.
On the other hand, Ricardo Gonzalez is also being accused of extortion and attacks against members of the Civil Force of Nuevo León. Although local authorities have not provided further details about the temporary closure of the airport, journalist Gildo Garza reported that the detention of "El Ricky" triggered a confrontation between the Mexican army and armed civilians aiming to free this criminal.
It is relevant to mention that Ricardo Gonzalez is linked to the attack on military personnel that occurred on August 17, 2024, where two members lost their lives.
