Gerardo ‘N’, also known as ‘El Congo’, was apprehended by authorities in Michoacán early on March 2nd. He is identified as a member of a criminal cell connected to the attack on Uruapan's mayor, Carlos Manzo, during the Festival de Velas. The apprehension was announced by Omar García Harfuch, the Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection, who detailed ‘El Congo's’ criminal activities, which include extorting avocado and lime producers, attacking rival groups, and committing homicides in Uruapan.

The arrest of ‘El Congo’ comes amidst a series of actions targeting those responsible for the assassination of Carlos Manzo, with 18 individuals already detained for their connections to the crime prior to this arrest. This highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement in Michoacán to dismantle organized crime groups operating in the region. ‘El Congo’ was reportedly operating under the leadership of Jorge Armando, alias ‘El Licenciado’, who was arrested in November 2025 and is suspected of having coordinated the assassination through messaging platforms.

Officials have remarked that investigations are ongoing with the intent to apprehend all individuals implicated in this high-profile case of violence linked to drug trafficking and local governance. The implications of these arrests may affect the power dynamics of criminal organizations in Michoacán and send a message regarding government efforts to combat organized crime.