Brutal cartel leader captured in northern Mexico

The leader of one of Mexico’s most feared and violent drug cartels, The Zetas, has been captured in northern Mexico.

Miguel Ángel Treviño Morales, 40, who goes by the nickname Z-40 was captured by Mexican authorities on Monday near the border with Texas and is now being held by Mexican marines. Two other men were also detained officials said, adding that the marines seized $2 million in cash and weapons.

Mr Treviño took control of the Zetas following the death of group founder Heriberto Lazcano in October 2012. Known for his brutality Mr Treviño has been linked to the disappearance of 265 migrants in northeastern Mexico, including 72 found dead in August 2010.

Treviño also faces drug and gun charges in the United States, which has offered a $5 million reward for information leading to his capture.

Defectors of the Mexican elite police unit originally formed the Zetas. They operate primarily in Mexico but their drug trafficking and organised crime operations have spread north of the border. The Zetas have been known to recruit members from Texas and launder money through the US quarter-horse industry.

Before he became the group’s overall leader, Mr Treviño co-ordinated the gang’s important Nuevo Laredo drug corridor into the US – the region in which he was finally apprehended.

Although this is the most successful arrest of a drug lord for the administration of President Enrique Pena Nieto, there are now fears Mr Treviño’s capture will lead to a series of in-fights between various Zeta factions to decide who will become his successor.

Eleanor Mackay