‘El LV,’ leader of ‘Los Chapitos,’ captured in Culiacán

Federal forces captured Leonel “V,” alias “El LV,” the alleged leader of a criminal cell linked to the sons of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán and a source of violence in Culiacán.

According to authorities, the operation took place on the afternoon of Saturday, September 6, inside the Altana Residencial neighborhood, north of the city. Along with him, seven of his men were arrested.

The operation was carried out by members of the National Guard and coordinated with other authorities. They managed to seize three properties, weapons, ammunition, and vehicles used by this criminal cell.

The Ministry of Public Security reported that they responded to the location following reports of armed individuals. Upon arrival, they found the individuals and detected stolen vehicles.

Upon noticing the presence of the authorities, the gunmen began shooting, and while repelling the attack, two men were injured; one by a bullet and the other while trying to jump a fence. Both were taken to a hospital for specialized medical attention, remaining in the custody of the authorities. After inspecting the buildings and vehicles, the following were seized:

6 AK-47 rifles,
2 M4 rifles,
30 magazines,
440 rounds of ammunition of various calibers,
8 tactical vests, and
16 ballistic plates.

The vehicles seized were an Audi SQ5, a Peugeot 2008 GT, a Toyota Yaris, and a Corolla, some of which had been reported stolen.

After the operation, “E LV” was handed over to the Attorney General’s Office, but it is unknown whether it could be transferred outside of Sinaloa.