April 19, 2009 Morelia, Mexico
Rafael Cedeño Herenedez "El Cede" of "La Familia Michoacana" captured

On April 19, 2009 authorities of the Secretary of Public Safety confirmed that on April 18th, Federal Police captured 44 members of the organized crime organization the "La Familia Michoacána". They were captured during a celebration of a baptism where 120 people had assisted in the city of Morelia, Michoacán. Among the arrested was Rafael Cedeño Hernandez a.k.a "El Cede", who is considered by governmental authorities to be the main leader of operations in four municipalities in Michoacán and four others in the state of Guerrero. "El Cede" is also believed to be the third from the top of the chain of command in the organized crime organization of "La Familia Michoacána". His operations included picking up and assassinating members of "Los Zetas" and members of the Beltran organization that were trying to take control of the drug trade in the states of Michoacán and Guerrero. Another part of his operation was to spread the control of territory of "La Familia Michoacána". He also controlled bars and black markets a well as prostitution of minors.

During interrogation Cedeño told agent that the group had to assist in courses where they try to better themselves in their values, morals and ethics to go by the goals of "La Familia Michoacana". They also discourage alcoholism and drug abuse and encouraged to unite families to raise members' motivation and spirits.

Along with the 44 arrested individuals Federal Police also confiscated an arsenal of fire arms that included high powered rifles and grenades.

For this operation Federal Police had received a tip that "El Cede" was going to be baptizing one of his son's. Federal Police counted on the assistance of 400 federal police officers, a 727 airplane and two Black Hawke helicopters.