13 Arrested in Urgent Investigation of Mexico City Mayor’s Staff Killings

UPDATE: In a swift and urgent operation, authorities have arrested 13 suspects linked to the shocking killings of two members of Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada’s staff. The arrests took place on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, following a meticulous investigation into the May 20 murders of Ximena Guzman and Jose Munoz, who were tragically shot dead in broad daylight.

The arrests come as investigators reveal that three of the suspects were directly involved in the shootings while the others played crucial roles in the logistics of this heinous act. Guzman, Brugada’s personal secretary, was picking up Munoz at a subway station when they were ambushed in Guzman’s car on a busy Mexico City street.

“These results represent the first advances of an ongoing investigation,” Brugada stated, emphasizing the importance of addressing the violence targeting her team. Bertha Maria Alcalde Lujan, the chief prosecutor of Mexico City, confirmed during a news conference that five vehicles were identified as part of the operation. Among them was the motorcycle used by the shooter, with two other vehicles reportedly surveilling the victims in the weeks leading up to the attack.

Authorities believe the hit was initially planned for May 14, but it was called off when Guzman did not pick up Munoz that day. This detail sheds light on the premeditated nature of the crime, raising concerns about the extent of planning involved.

According to Omar Garcia Harfuch, Mexico’s federal security chief, the suspects fled to a neighborhood in Iztacalco after the shooting. There, they changed vehicles and escaped to neighboring Mexico State, highlighting the organized effort to evade capture.

Law enforcement officials conducted 11 raids early Wednesday, leading to the apprehension of the suspects. Pablo Vazquez Camacho, the Chief of Police in Mexico City, indicated that multiple lines of investigation are ongoing, but declined to provide details about potential motives as the investigation remains active.

The urgency of these arrests underscores the ongoing violence in Mexico, particularly targeting political figures and their staff. The community and officials alike are demanding answers and justice in the wake of this tragic incident.

As this story develops, the focus remains on the investigation’s next steps and the implications for security in Mexico City. The public is urged to stay tuned for further updates as authorities continue to unveil details surrounding this alarming case.