Mexican federal authorities have confirmed the arrest of José Alonso “N,” alias ‘El Gusi,’ a suspected member of Los Chapitos, the faction of the Sinaloa Cartel led by the sons of infamous drug lord Joaquín ‘El Chapo’ Guzmán. The arrest, carried out by Mexico’s Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection (SSyPC), took place in Culiacán, Sinaloa, alongside the capture of two other individuals linked to the same criminal organization.
The Arrest and Its Implications
According to the official report released on Thursday, February 20, federal security forces detained three individuals, including Kevin Alonso and José Alonso. Both are reportedly affiliated with the organized crime group operating in the region.
While details about the exact time and location of ‘El Gusi’s’ capture remain undisclosed, the National Registry of Detentions (RND) confirmed his arrest on February 19. Described as a light-skinned man with a graying beard and an average build, he was reportedly wearing a black jacket, white shirt, blue jeans, black dress shoes, and a navy-and-white cap at the time of his detention.
Sources indicated that ‘El Gusi’ is not only associated with Los Chapitos but is also the uncle of Kevin Alonso, alias ‘El 200.’ However, his specific role within the faction remains unclear.
Ties to Iván Archivaldo Guzmán and Los Chapitos
Security sources revealed that ‘El Gusi’ was located following the recent arrest of his nephew, ‘El 200,’ who played a key role in Los Chapitos’ operations. ‘El 200’ was responsible for the personal security of Iván Archivaldo Guzmán, one of El Chapo’s sons and a current leader of the faction.
His arrest, along with that of another individual, Gustavo Acosta, led to the seizure of firearms restricted to military use. Both men were placed under federal custody.
Beyond his role as a bodyguard for Iván Archivaldo, ‘El 200’ was reportedly involved in coordinating arms and ammunition purchases for Los Chapitos’ various operational cells. Authorities also linked him to organizing tactical units to counter rival groups and federal forces.
A Series of High-Profile Arrests
The detentions of ‘El Gusi,’ ‘El 200,’ and Gustavo Acosta follow the recent capture of another key Los Chapitos operative: José Ángel Canobbio Inzunza, alias ‘El Güerito.’ Considered one of Iván Archivaldo Guzmán’s most trusted men, ‘El Güerito’ was heavily involved in the faction’s financial operations and international drug trafficking logistics.
According to federal sources, ‘El Güerito’ played a role in the distribution of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine. He was also reportedly involved in the two high-profile “Culiacanazos”—the 2019 and 2023 operations to detain Ovidio Guzmán López, another leader of Los Chapitos.
Crackdown on Los Chapitos Continues
These arrests represent a significant blow to Los Chapitos, who have faced increasing pressure from both Mexican and U.S. authorities due to their dominance in the fentanyl trade. The recent captures of high-ranking operatives could indicate a broader strategy aimed at weakening the cartel’s leadership and operational structure.
Despite these efforts, Los Chapitos remain one of the most powerful factions within the Sinaloa Cartel, with a well-established international drug distribution network. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether these arrests will disrupt their operations or merely lead to new leadership emerging within the organization.
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