Overview

• State and federal forces arrested 38 men in Vista Hermosa, Michoacán, where officers found a 9mm pistol, 19 replica firearms, knives, tactical gear, radios and a simulated explosive device.
• Those held identified themselves as part of a group called Jahzer and told officials they trained to safeguard temples, leaders and large church events; they were transferred to the FGR in Morelia as probes continue.
• U.S. prosecutors in New York have separately arraigned church leader Naasón Joaquín García on six federal counts including sex trafficking and organized crime; he pleaded not guilty and remains in custody with a hearing set for mid-December.
• Co-defendants include García’s mother, Eva García de Joaquín, and his nephew, Joram Núñez, who were arrested in Los Angeles and Chicago, while other named suspects are being sought.
• Mexican authorities are examining potential additional camps and any ties to CJNG in the region, as prior financial complaints and expert commentary have raised unproven allegations of laundering through the church.