Mexican gov't confirms death of key cartel member with $1 million bounty

Jorge Humberto Figueroa Benítez, regarded by the U.S. government as a prominent figure within the criminal group "Los Chapitos," was killed during a law enforcement operation targeting his capture in Sinaloa, Mexico, Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection Omar García Harfuch announced on Saturday.

The operation took place in Navolato, located about 32 kilometers (19 miles) from Culiacán, the capital of Sinaloa, according to reports from local media.

Figueroa Benítez, also known as "El Perris," was a high-priority target due to his significant role in the cartel.

The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) had placed a reward of up to $1 million (approx. Sh129 million) for information leading to the capture of Figueroa Benítez.

He was wanted on federal charges including conspiracy to import and traffic fentanyl, possession of machine guns and destructive devices, as well as conspiracy to launder money.

In 2019, Culiacán witnessed a violent event dubbed the "Culiacanazo," marked by intense armed confrontations after Mexican authorities briefly arrested Ovidio Guzmán López, son of Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán.

Officials released Ovidio shortly afterward, citing the move as necessary to "save lives."

Following his extradition to the United States in 2023, Ovidio initially pleaded not guilty to drug trafficking and money laundering charges.

However, court documents obtained by CNN indicate he is now expected to change his plea.

In early May, a U.S. government official told CNN that several of Ovidio Guzmán’s relatives crossed into the United States from Mexico through the San Ysidro port of entry, reportedly as part of a deal with the U.S. Department of Justice.

CNN has not confirmed the whereabouts of these individuals or whether they have entered a witness protection program.

The network has reached out to U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Department of Justice for comment.