Former Copalillo Official Accused of Extortion and Linked to Los Tlacos Is Arrested

“Sol Prendido” for Borderland Beat

The federal Security Cabinet confirmed the arrest of Samuel Benítez Cantorán—a former chief administrative officer (*oficial mayor*) of Copalillo and a former mayoral candidate—who is alleged to have ties to the criminal group “Los Tlacos,” also known as the “Cártel de la Sierra.”

Two others arrested during the operation

The arrest took place on October 23 in Iguala, Guerrero, during an operation involving personnel from the Army and the National Guard, in coordination with state authorities.

Along with Benítez Cantorán, two other men—identified as Pedro “N” and Heriberto “N”—were also arrested; they are likewise alleged to be members of this criminal organization.

During the operation, weapons, drugs, and cash were seized. The detainees and the confiscated items have been placed at the disposal of the competent judicial authority in Guerrero.

What is Samuel Benítez Cantorán accused of?

Investigations point to the former official as the alleged local leader (*jefe de plaza*) and financial operator for “Los Tlacos” in the municipality of Copalillo.

According to the investigations, Benítez Cantorán and the two other individuals arrested allegedly threatened and intimidated local merchants, forcing them to purchase basic food staples supplied by the group.

Authorities link this practice to a scheme designed to control and monopolize essential goods within the municipality of Copalillo.

In addition to the alleged extortion, the former *oficial mayor* (chief administrative officer) is also linked to potential homicide cases. These accusations will need to be clarified by the relevant authorities through ongoing investigations and judicial proceedings.

The arrest is part of security operations carried out in the state of Guerrero, targeting individuals suspected of involvement in criminal activities.

Who are “Los Tlacos,” or the “Cártel de la Sierra” (Los de La Sierra)?

“Los Tlacos”—also known as the “Cártel de la Sierra”—are a criminal organization active in the state of Guerrero, with origins in Tlacotepec, in the municipality of General Heliodoro Castillo.

According to the group’s history, it began as a community police or “self-defense” (*autodefensa*) structure, claiming to protect local residents from other criminal organizations.

Over time, the group expanded its influence into the northern region of Guerrero and has since been linked to activities such as drug dealing, homicide, and the extortion of local merchants.

Arrest is part of state-level operations

The arrest of Samuel Benítez Cantorán and the two other men is part of ongoing operations by federal and state authorities in the region. Their alleged involvement with “Los Tlacos” and the specific crimes attributed to them will be determined as the legal process unfolds.

Editor’s Note: The Los Tlacos Cartel or Cartel de La Sierra is a criminal organization out of Guerrero that has no problems executing their enemies in large numbers  Their horrific ways were made to known to the world back in September 2021 when they captured, interrogated, and dismembered dozens of enslaved individuals afterward.

Sources: Uno Tv, Borderland Beat Archives