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Current Affairs

Los Chapitos Financial Operator “El Tío” Captured in Mazatlan, Sinaloa

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By Samantha Johnson / July 28, 2026

By “El Huaso” for Borderland Beat

Mexican federal forces captured Ricardo Ozuna Tirado, alias “El Tío,” a key financial operator and leader of a Los Chapitos cell, during an operation in the upscale El Cid subdivision of Mazatlán, Sinaloa, on Saturday, July 25, 2026.

The operation was carried out by the Mexican Navy (SEMAR), working with the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection (SSPC) and the Attorney General’s Office (FGR). Two luxury properties were raided, netting six arrests, including the 49-year-old El Tío. Mexican media reports El Tío was wanted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency.

In addition to the arrests, authorities seized two firearms, magazines, ammunition, $100,000 in cash, cell phones, computers, and two high-end vehicles.

According to Mexican authorities, El Tío is a principal leader and financial operator of a criminal cell aligned with Los Chapitos, the faction led by the sons of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, that operates in the municipality of La Cruz de Elota in southern Sinaloa. 

Sources: Debate, Luz Noticias


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