According to reporting by Anel Tello for Milenio, one of the most surprising chapters in the pursuit of alleged drug trafficker Luis Fernando Sánchez Arellano, known as “El Ingeniero,” unfolded during the excitement of the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
For years, Sánchez Arellano had been considered a key figure within the Arellano Félix Cartel, an organization that once held significant influence in northwestern Mexico. Authorities in both Mexico and the United States had sought to locate him, but he managed to remain out of reach.
On June 23, 2014, millions of Mexicans were focused on a crucial World Cup match between Mexico national football team and Croatia national football team. Mexico’s 3–1 victory sparked celebrations across the country, including in Tijuana.
According to the Milenio report, investigators believed Sánchez Arellano would not miss such an important game. Surveillance efforts were reportedly concentrated on locations where fans were gathering to watch and celebrate. As celebrations spilled into the streets after the final whistle, authorities allegedly identified their target traveling through the city.
The operation culminated in his arrest outside a restaurant in Tijuana. The article describes the moment as a striking twist: after years of avoiding capture, the man authorities had spent so long pursuing it was allegedly located amid the public euphoria surrounding Mexico’s World Cup success.
Following his arrest, Sánchez Arellano was transferred to Mexico City and faced legal proceedings related to organized crime and money laundering allegations. The case became one of the most notable episodes associated with the decline of the Arellano Félix organization.
