The hunt against a regional leader of the CJNG unleashed drug blockades in Michoacan
An operation to capture Angel Chavez Ponce, alias “El Camaleon”, unleashed a series of drug blockades in several municipalities of Michoacan to cover his escape
The implementation of the Michoacan Plan by the federal government has targeted leaders of organized crime operating in that state; however, the response from the cartels has been violent.
This recently occurred after an operation to try to capture Angel Chavez Ponce, alias “El Camaleon” (The Chameleon), identified as a regional leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
The operation included the deployment of federal agents by land and air in the municipality of Salvador Escalante with support from the Mexican Army, and resulted in the death of two alleged hitmen.
According to a statement from the Civil Guard, members of the CJNG covered “El Camaleon’s” escape with a series of roadblocks using burning vehicles in at least 15 municipalities in Michoacan.
The Government of Michoacan confirmed that the CJNG set fire to several vehicles and trucks on state and federal highways.
Angel Chavez Ponce is identified as one of the most important regional operators of the CJNG in Michoacan.
Originally from the municipality of La Huacana, he first joined the criminal group Los Viagras and later Pueblos Unidos, where he operated as the armed wing of Los Caballeros Templarios.
His incorporation into the CJNG strengthened the cartel on strategic routes such as Uruapan, Salvador Escalante, and Patzcuaro.
Authorities link him to extortion networks targeting avocado and lime producers, collecting payments from transporters, and monitoring roads used for moving goods. They also linked him to attacks against state forces.