Puebla, Mexico — Mexican authorities have arrested the mayor of Esperanza, Puebla, along with eight other people in a major security operation targeting an alleged criminal network involved in extortion, kidnapping and cargo theft.

Federal and state security forces carried out 23 simultaneous searches in the municipality of Esperanza during an operation that began in the early hours of September 7. Among those detained was municipal mayor José Isaac “N”, his brother Manuel “N,” several municipal employees and the former local public-security director. Authorities allege that the group was connected to a criminal structure operating mainly around the Puebla-Veracruz highway.

Officials said the operation involved the Federal Attorney General’s Office, the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection, the National Guard, the National Intelligence Center and Puebla authorities.

During the searches, authorities reported seizing 35 firearms, including two Barrett rifles, along with 52 magazines and 11 vehicles. Four of the vehicles were reportedly armored, while another allegedly had homemade armor and a turret. Police also recovered tactical clothing, a drone and a signal jammer.

Investigators are examining allegations that the suspects were involved in crimes including the theft of cargo vehicles, extortion and kidnapping. Authorities said the arrests form part of the wider Operation Enjambre, a security strategy designed to dismantle alleged criminal and corruption networks involving local officials.

The mayor’s arrest reportedly came shortly after he had participated in a local Independence Day-related event. Following the security operation, access routes around Esperanza were restricted, while schools and classes were reportedly suspended as authorities carried out searches and secured locations.

The investigation is significant because it involves a sitting municipal official and several people associated with the local administration. Authorities are now examining whether the alleged network had broader connections and whether additional individuals could be implicated.

The detained individuals were informed of their legal rights and placed at the disposal of prosecutors, who will determine their legal status as the investigation progresses. The properties searched during the operation have also been sealed while evidence is examined.

Mexican authorities have not established the allegations as criminal convictions. All suspects are presumed innocent unless and until their guilt is proven in court.

The investigation remains ongoing, with prosecutors expected to determine the next legal steps against the detained suspects.