Nuevo Imperio Cartel Leader Edgar Aarón Vásquez Alvarado Killed in Security Operation
Federal forces neutralized the cartel founder during a high-stakes arrest operation in Naucalpan.
1Operation in Lomas Verdes
Federal agents from the SSPC, supported by the AIC and CNI, killed Edgar Aarón Vásquez Alvarado, known as El General, in Lomas Verdes, Naucalpan. The confrontation occurred on November 5, 2026, while authorities were executing an arrest warrant for organized crime. Two individuals, including Vásquez, died during the exchange of gunfire.
2Criminal Profile and Reach
Vásquez founded the Nuevo Imperio Cartel, which operates across Mexico City, Morelos, and the State of Mexico. He faced investigations for high-impact crimes including kidnapping, extortion, homicide, money laundering, and fuel theft. His organization also facilitated drug trafficking operations targeting markets in both the United States and Canada for years.
3Links to Ryan Wedding
The U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned Vásquez on November 19, 2025, for providing protection to Canadian trafficker Ryan James Wedding. Vásquez allegedly utilized his deep-rooted contacts within Mexican police corporations to track targets for Wedding’s criminal network. This collaboration was documented under Executive Order 14059, targeting those supporting the former Olympic athlete.
4Corporate and Security Ties
Vásquez was a suspected former Mexican security official who maintained connections with high-ranking police commanders. He utilized these institutional ties to shield his illicit activities. The U.S. government blocked three of his companies: VRG Energéticos S.A. de C.V., Grupo RVG Combustibles S.A. de C.V., and Grupo Ares Imperial S. de R.L. de C.V.
5Homicide of Milton Morales
Secretary Omar García Harfuch identified Vásquez as the intellectual author behind the July 21, 2024, murder of Milton Morales Figueroa. Morales was a dedicated official whose death remains a priority for the SSPC. Authorities stated that while the primary suspect is dead, the investigation into the broader criminal network continues.
6The Wedding Connection
Ryan James Wedding, a former Winter Olympian, lived clandestinely in Mexico for over a decade. He led a massive network trafficking cocaine from Colombia through Mexico to North American markets. Following his January 2026 arrest, he was compared to major cartel figures. Vásquez served as his primary protector within Mexican territory.
7Biographical Background
Born on February 14, 1984, in Mexico City, Vásquez was documented in the OFAC sanctions list using his CURP and Mexican passport. His official records confirm his identity as the leader of Nuevo Imperio. These details were cross-referenced with U.S. intelligence to solidify the case against his financial and operational network.
8Future Security Strategy
The government continues coordinated efforts between the FGR, SSC, and state prosecutors to dismantle the remaining structure of the Nuevo Imperio Cartel. Officials emphasize that neutralizing high-level targets is part of a broader strategy to combat organized crime. Investigations remain active to identify and apprehend all remaining members of the organization.