The Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection, Omar Garcia Harfuch, stated that Jorge Armando “N”, alias “El Licenciado”, arrested this week in Morelia, allegedly coordinated the operation to assassinate the mayor of Uruapan, Carlos Manzo, with Ramon Angel Alvarez, alias “R1”, leader of a cell of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) operating in Michoacan. In an interview with Azucena Uresti, Garcia Harfuch indicated that the detainee is considered “one of the masterminds” of the attack and that the investigations indicate he organized the logistics of the murder, including escape routes and the positions of the participants. The murder of Carlos Manzo occurred on November 1st after the mayor inaugurated the traditional Candlelight Parade in the main square of Uruapan, Michoacan. The order was “(El Licenciado) was pressuring them to commit the murder, even if the victim was with a family member,” he stated, referring to messages found on a device seized from those involved in the crime. The official added that “El Licenciado” also participated directly in the murder and that in his statement he identified another alleged mastermind, who would have received the order from a leader of a CJNG criminal cell, known as “R1.” According to Garcia Harfuch, the latter operates alongside his brother “R2” in at least four municipalities in Michoacan. Although he has not yet been arrested, the investigation has already identified several people in his circle.

The case initially progressed with the identification of Victor Manuel Ubaldo Vidales, a 17-year-old identified as the hitman who shot Manzo. Vidales was killed by the mayor's bodyguards after committing the crime. His death led to the discovery of two other accomplices, also killed, and subsequently to additional members of the cell, ultimately leading to the capture of "El Licenciado."The secretary indicated that members of the criminal group themselves had killed the young men who participated in the attack to hinder the investigation.

Evidence found on cell phones, reveals Garcia Harfuch

“They didn't count on us finding evidence and mobile devices at the scene,” he said.

Garcia Harfuch explained that more than three young men were positioned in the vicinity of the attack, all recruited by organized crime and aware of their involvement.

“They are no different from other hitmen who act for money or membership in a criminal group,” he noted. He indicated that one of them was a methamphetamine and other drug user. The secretary reported that, during a search of “El Licenciado’s” property, new evidence was seized that is being analyzed and could open additional lines of investigation. He also confirmed that the assailant knew Manzo was live-streaming at the time of the attack, although he said it is unclear whether they were trying to be seen. When asked about allegations of the possible involvement of political figures such as Leonel Godoy, Ignacio Campos, and Raul Moron, Garcia Harfuch ruled out that they had been summoned to testify. “The investigation is based on evidence. We are not protecting anyone, but we cannot engage in speculation,” he stated. He added that they will analyze every mention and exhaust all available lines of investigation.But we cannot engage in speculation,” he stated. He added that they will analyze every mention and exhaust all available lines of investigation.But we cannot engage in speculation,” he stated. He added that they will analyze every mention and exhaust all available lines of investigation.