El Cholo Arrested: Major Drug Lord Captured in Mexico

Ciudad de México, Mexico — Cristian Alejandro, also known as “El Cholo,” was arrested on February 22, 2025, during a joint operation involving the Mexican National Guard and military forces in Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato. The arrest was confirmed by the Attorney General’s Office (FGR) the following day.

El Cholo is regarded as a key figure behind the surge of violence in the region, linked to activities including drug trafficking, illegal fuel sales, extortion, and kidnappings. Authorities seized an AR-15 rifle, three magazines, 50 rounds of ammunition, one kilogram of methamphetamine, 45 doses of marijuana, a mobile phone, and a vehicle during the arrest.

Witnesses stated that the capture occurred on Calle Rivera del Río as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle the Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel led by the imprisoned José Antonio Yépez, known as “El Marro.” This marks the second significant blow to El Marro’s organization in just over a week, following the arrest of Candelaria “N,” a key operator of the cartel, on February 14.

Authorities believe Candelaria, 40, was instrumental in orchestrating murder contracts and attacks on police aimed at maintaining the cartel’s operations. Reports also suggest her involvement in the assassination of Gisela Gaytán, a candidate for mayor of Celaya, in April 2024.

Images circulating on social media depict El Cholo displaying tattoos and traveling in a black Jeep. The vehicle, along with several weapons and drug bags marked with the initials C.S.R.D.L., reminiscent of the Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel, were recovered by law enforcement.

The Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel emerged around 2014 and has been embroiled in bloody turf wars against the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). This conflict has resulted in a significant increase in violence across several states in Mexico, particularly Guanajuato, as rival factions vie for control of lucrative drug and fuel trafficking routes.

According to federal officials, El Cholo was a trusted associate of Guadalupe Díaz, also known as “La Lupe,” who was arrested in April 2024 but has reportedly continued to operate despite a judge changing her incarceration conditions to house arrest.

The violence in Guanajuato has escalated due to the ongoing power struggle between these cartels, leading to multiple recent massacres that left dozens dead, including incidents in Querétaro. This fraught environment has sparked fears of continued unrest as these groups compete for territory and resources.

As authorities continue their crackdown on organized criminal activities, the urgency to address the violence and instability in Guanajuato has grown, with various operations taking place to arrest key cartel figures.