January 21, 2008 Sinaloa, Mexico
Mexican military special forces arrested Alfredo Beltran Levya, one of the main leaders of the Sinaloa Cartel. Cash, firearms and 3 others arrested

Special forces of the Mexican military arrested Alfredo Beltran-Leyva in the city of Culiacan in Sinaloa, Mexico.  Beltran-Leyva is known by the nick name of "El Mochomo".  He was arrested along with three men that are believe to be some of his personal security guards in a BMX X3.  Their names are Javier Hugo Urquiza Inzunza, Flavio Manuel Castro León, y José Uistisengo Barraza. Two suitcases with approximately $900,000 was with them, as well as firearms including an AK-47.  Eleven luxury watches were also seized.

Beltran-Leyva along with his brothers Hector, Marcos Arturo, Mario and Carols Beltran Leyva are a part of the Sinaloa cartel.  This cartel is arguably the most influential cartel in Mexico and the leader of this cartel is "Chapo" Guzmán Loera.


Alfredo Beltran Leyva is believed to have been responsible for
transportation of the drugs, money laundering operations and making connections with public officials in the Mexican states of Sinaloa, Sonora, Durango, Chihuahua, Nayarit and Jalisco.  He was also in charge of at least two known assassin groups. These groups are known as "Los Pelones" in the state of Guerrero and "Los Gueros" in the state of Sonora.

All four of the subjects that were arrested were transported to Mexico City.  Alfredo Beltran Leyva is wanted by the U.S. Government. 

The word "Mochomo" is a big red ant that has a strong sting.  These
ants are common in the Mexican state of Sinaloa.