Mexican Army Kills Drug Cartel Chief La Perris in Navolato

Navolato, Sinaloa — Jorge Humberto Figueroa Benítez, known as La Perris or El 27, was killed by Mexican Army Special Forces on May 23 during an operation aimed at capturing him. The announcement was made by Omar García Harfuch, the Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection.

The operation took place near the town of Bariometro, not far from Navolato. Figueroa Benítez was shot in a single-story home made of brick and concrete, identified in reports as having a red facade with a brown gate. Witnesses reported the sound of gunfire and saw military helicopters overhead during the operation.

Images shared on social media show the house featured multiple bullet holes and signs of damage after the shootout. Figueroa’s body was found inside the home, next to a firearm. He was known as a security chief for Los Chapitos, the faction of the Sinaloa Cartel led by Joaquín 'El Chapo' Guzmán’s sons.

The U.S. government had placed a $1 million reward for information leading to his capture, citing his involvement in drug trafficking and violence. In the conflict, Army personnel reportedly exchanged fire with armed individuals at the scene, resulting in Figueroa being shot in self-defense. Harfuch confirmed that there were no civilian casualties in the confrontation.

La Perris was notorious for his past violence, including the alleged attempted torture and murder of several individuals. Sources indicate he was an integral part of Los Chapitos, particularly after another member’s arrest in 2023. His rise in the cartel’s ranks and his role as a principal operator reflect a broader ongoing struggle against drug trafficking in Mexico.

Reports also hint at a nearby individual, identified as José María, also being killed during the operation. As of now, confirmation of additional casualties remains unofficial.