Mexican authorities have arrested José Ángel Rivera, also known as “Don Flaco,” who is accused of coordinating and financing an organization involved in transporting chemical precursors used to manufacture fentanyl. The arrest took place in Mexico City on September 22 during an operation involving Mexican security agencies and information shared by U.S. authorities.
Mexican Security Minister Omar García Harfuch said the operation involved cooperation with the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Suspect Accused of Moving Fentanyl Precursors
Authorities allege that Rivera was involved in arranging the movement of chemical substances from China to Mexico and the United States. These precursor chemicals can be used in the production of synthetic drugs, including fentanyl.
Rivera had previously been sanctioned by the U.S. government in January 2023 over alleged involvement in fentanyl trafficking to the United States. Mexican authorities said the latest arrest was carried out as part of an international law-enforcement effort targeting the financial and logistical networks supporting drug trafficking.
Mexican officials said the detention was made under an order connected to a potential extradition process. Further legal proceedings are expected to determine the next steps in the case.
FBI and DEA Information Shared With Mexican Authorities
The arrest highlights continued cooperation between Mexico and U.S. law-enforcement agencies in investigations involving cross-border drug trafficking.
García Harfuch said the operation demonstrated the importance of international cooperation while emphasizing Mexico’s sovereignty. Mexican authorities have increasingly focused on disrupting not only the movement of finished narcotics but also the supply chains and financial networks that support their production.
The arrest also comes as drug trafficking and cartel-related violence remain major security issues in relations between Mexico and the United States.
Arrest Comes Amid Renewed Focus on Fentanyl Trafficking
The detention occurred on the same day U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the United Nations and discussed drug cartel violence in Mexico. Trump called attention to Mexico’s role in the regional drug trade and urged stronger efforts to regain control over territory affected by criminal organizations.
The case involving Rivera is expected to draw further attention to the international supply chains behind fentanyl production, particularly the movement of chemical precursors across borders.
