Mexican Military Captures Top JNGC Commander “El Jardinero” in Major Operation

Mexican forces have arrested Audias Flores Silva, a top Jalisco New Generation Cartel commander known as “El Jardinero,” in a planned operation north of a resort city. He was captured without gunfire after months of surveillance with U.S. intelligence support.

Mexican military forces have arrested Audias Flores Silva, a senior commander of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (JNGC), in a carefully planned operation carried out north of a resort city in Mexico. Flores, widely known by his alias “El Jardinero” (The Gardener), was regarded as one of the most influential figures within the cartel and was believed to be a strong contender for leadership within the criminal organisation.
According to officials, Flores had been under close surveillance for about 19 months prior to his arrest. The operation was executed with the support of intelligence provided by United States authorities and involved coordinated ground and aerial tracking. Mexican Navy officials stated that he was located hiding in a roadside ditch after security forces surrounded a cabin where he had been staying under heavy protection.
Reports indicate that Flores was guarded by a large group of armed men and vehicles, but these security escorts dispersed in different directions as military forces closed in. Authorities described the operation as highly strategic and precise, noting that it was completed without any exchange of gunfire. Security forces carefully tracked his movements until they confirmed his exact location and moved in to apprehend him safely.
Flores had been designated a high-value target due to his alleged role in coordinating violent operations and criminal activities linked to the cartel. The United States government had previously placed a $5 million reward on information leading to his capture, especially after increased instability within the cartel’s leadership structure.
His arrest comes at a time of heightened violence associated with the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, particularly following reports of internal power struggles and increased attacks on civilians, security forces, and infrastructure. The cartel has been linked to widespread violence, including killings, arson attacks on vehicles, and road blockades that have disrupted several regions in Mexico.
Authorities have also arrested another suspected associate of the cartel shortly after Flores’ capture, identified as a key money launderer involved in supporting his operations. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of Flores’ role and whether he will face prosecution in Mexico or extradition to the United States, where he is also wanted.
The arrest has drawn international attention, especially as Mexico continues to face pressure over its security situation ahead of its co-hosting of the FIFA World Cup alongside the United States and Canada. The government of President Claudia Sheinbaum has maintained its position against foreign military intervention, despite increased calls from the United States to intensify action against organised crime groups operating within the country.