Navy, International Police in Cancun Apprehended Cartel Leader 'El Delta'
Sinaloa Gang Leader's Arrest Spells Trouble for the Cartel
Overt Operator
October 18, 2023
In a significant blow to the Sinaloa Cartel's operations, one of the prominent ringleaders of a cartel branch has been apprehended in Cancun.
Lamadrid Soto, also known as "El Delta" and believed to be in charge of drug trafficking to Arizona and New Mexico from Sonora, Mexico, was captured on Monday by Interpol agents, local media reports explained.
This arrest was made possible through the joint efforts of the Secretary of the Navy (Semar) and the Federal Attorney General's Office (FGR), with assistance from Interpol. Acting on information provided by Interpol agents, Navy personnel located and arrested Lamadrid Soto in Cancun.
The arrest was made on an outstanding U.S. arrest warrant, which seeks his extradition for alleged involvement in organized crime and drug trafficking.
Naval reports indicate that Lamadrid Soto and his criminal cell, Los Paredes, have established their stronghold in Agua Prieta, Sonora, considering it the "seat of power" for their operations. The arrest of Lamadrid Soto deals a significant blow to the Paredes empire's influence in the region.
This is not the first encounter with the law for Lamadrid Soto. In 2007, he was arrested in Tucson, Arizona, but managed to escape police custody during a home search. Since then, he has remained an elusive figure, evading capture until now.
The Sinaloa Cartel, notorious for its involvement in drug trafficking and organized crime, has long been a thorn in the side of law enforcement agencies. With branches operating in various parts of Mexico and the United States, the cartel has managed to maintain its influence over drug trafficking routes for years. However, concerted efforts by international law enforcement agencies have led to significant arrests and seizures, disrupting their operations.
The capture of Lamadrid Soto signifies a major victory in the fight against drug trafficking and organized crime. It serves as a reminder that law enforcement agencies are determined to dismantle criminal networks that pose a threat to public safety. The collaboration between the Secretary of the Navy, the Federal Attorney General's Office, and Interpol demonstrates the effectiveness of international cooperation in combating transnational criminal organizations.
The arrest of Lamadrid Soto also highlights the ongoing battle against drug trafficking, which continues to plague both Mexico and the United States. The drug trade has severe consequences, fueling violence, corruption, and addiction. By targeting high-level operatives like Soto, authorities aim to disrupt the entire supply chain, making it increasingly difficult for cartels to operate.
As Lamadrid Soto awaits extradition to the United States, his capture serves as a stark reminder that no criminal can escape the long arm of the law forever. The arrest sends a clear message to other cartel members that their days of impunity are numbered.
In the relentless pursuit of justice, law enforcement agencies will continue their efforts to dismantle criminal organizations and ensure the safety and security of communities on both sides of the border. The capture of Lamadrid Soto is a significant step forward in this ongoing battle, but the fight against drug trafficking and organized crime is far from over.