In a significant operation on Wednesday, Mexican federal and local authorities apprehended Julio Yidier "N," also known as "El Tilín," a Cuban national identified as the head of a criminal group involved in the sale and distribution of narcotics. This was confirmed through an official statement from the Security Cabinet.
Alongside "El Tilín," five additional individuals were captured, including two other foreign nationals. The total number of those arrested includes Julio, Pablo, Meng, Carlos, José, and Carlos.
The successful operation stemmed from intricate intelligence efforts carried out by the Secretariat of Security and Civilian Protection (SSPC), the Attorney General's Office (FGR), the Navy, the National Defense Secretariat, the National Guard, and the Mexico City Citizen Security Secretariat.
Authorities discovered a mechanic shop in the Benito Juárez district serving as a front for creating concealed compartments in vehicles—some of high-end models—intended for drug transportation.
Based on the gathered evidence, a Control Judge issued search warrants for two properties located in the Narvarte Poniente and Américas Unidas neighborhoods, areas known for their middle to upper-middle class residences in Mexico City.
During the raids, security forces confiscated two kilograms of crystal meth, marijuana and cocaine doses, cash, vehicles modified with hidden compartments, handguns, ammunition, mobile devices, computer equipment, and payment terminals.
The group's method—using a workshop to install secret compartments in cars—is a well-documented tactic in Mexican organized crime, also utilized by other groups in previous operations within the capital.
The arrest of "El Tilín" highlights an increasing trend of Cuban nationals becoming involved in criminal networks in Mexico. Earlier this year, a Cuban was detained in Cancún under a U.S. warrant for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
Further instances include a Cuban arrested in Tabasco for alleged drug dealing in December 2025, and another case in July 2024 where 17 Cubans were apprehended in Hidalgo during an anti-drug operation.
A notable case involved Cuban-Mexican businessman Juan Carlos Minero Alonso, arrested in May 2025 for allegedly funneling approximately 15 billion pesos from drug trafficking through his company.
The six individuals detained on Wednesday are now under the jurisdiction of the corresponding Public Ministry agent to determine their legal status, while the two raided properties remain under police custody.
The Growing Presence of Cubans in Mexican Drug Networks
Who is "El Tilín" and what charges is he facing?
"El Tilín" is the alias of Julio Yidier "N," a Cuban national accused of leading a criminal group involved in drug trafficking. He is facing charges related to narcotic distribution and organized crime.
What was discovered during the operation in Mexico City?
Authorities seized two kilograms of crystal meth, doses of marijuana and cocaine, cash, modified vehicles with hidden compartments, firearms, ammunition, and various electronic devices.
How are Cuban nationals becoming involved in Mexican criminal networks?
There is an increasing trend of Cuban nationals participating in criminal activities in Mexico, as seen in various arrests over the past years, indicating a growing presence in drug trafficking networks.