Mexican Military Forces Apprehend Ten Cartel Operatives Linked To El Guano In Intelligence Led Raid

Ten cartel operatives linked to El Chapo’s brother were detained in a Durango raid, highlighting complex US-Mexico intelligence sharing under Sheinbaum.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 26, 2026, 2:45 PM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from CBS

Targeting The Inner Circle Of The Loera Faction

Mexican military forces have successfully dismantled a significant portion of the leadership structure surrounding Aureliano Guzman Loera, the brother of the notorious drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman. During a precision raid in the village of Tamazula, soldiers apprehended ten individuals, including Loera’s chief bodyguard and his primary financial advisor. The defense secretary confirmed that the detainees represent the core logistical and security framework of the faction known as "El Guano." While the primary target remains at large, the loss of his "right-hand man" is expected to cause significant disruption to the cartel's regional influence and operational capacity.

Strategic Intelligence Sharing Amid Diplomatic Tension

The success of the operation has been attributed to critical intelligence provided by the United States government, highlighting a persistent yet complicated security partnership. This cooperation comes at a time of visible strain between President Claudia Sheinbaum and President Donald Trump over the limits of foreign intervention. According to Mexican officials, while intelligence sharing remains a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship, the Sheinbaum administration has strictly prohibited on-the-ground actions by foreign agents without explicit federal authorization. This raid serves as a high-profile example of the effectiveness of information exchange when conducted within these established legal boundaries.

The Volatile Conflict For Sinaloa Cartel Control

The capture of these operatives takes place against the backdrop of an internal power struggle for control of the Sinaloa cartel. Factions loyal to the Guzman family are currently engaged in a violent territorial war against groups tied to Ismael Zambada, a co-founder of the organization who is currently awaiting trial in the United States. This fracturing of one of the world's most powerful criminal enterprises has led to increased military activity in the mountainous sierra, a region traditionally used as a primary hideout for cartel leadership. The ongoing volatility in Durango and Sinaloa continues to drive both domestic military deployments and international rewards for top leaders.