PUERTO PEÑASCO, Sonora — Authorities in the state of Sonora seized 18 vehicles from the basement of a luxury apartment complex in Puerto Peñasco. A subsequent investigation revealed that 17 of the vehicles were reported stolen in the United States, marking a significant breakthrough in a complex criminal investigation.
The operation, carried out on October 9, was part of a ministerial inquiry into the disappearance of two individuals who were later found alive. Investigators also linked the case to a violent armed attack on October 4 on Benito Juárez Boulevard, which resulted in the deaths of two 27-year-old men.
Key Links to Criminal Activity
One of the most notable leads emerged from the investigation into the missing persons: one of the individuals reported missing served as the maintenance chief for the very luxury complex where the vehicles were discovered. This detail is now a core component of the investigation being led by the Criminal Investigation Agency (AMIC).
The seizure is also tied to the ongoing probe into the October 4 shooting, in which Jesús Pedro Ángel “N” was killed at the scene and Iván Antonio “N” succumbed to his injuries in a hospital.
A Pattern of Stolen U.S. Imports
Verification with U.S. authorities confirmed that 17 of the 18 units were reported stolen in various locations across California, Arizona, and Nevada. The theft reports date back to a period between 2021 and 2025, suggesting a systematic pattern of theft spanning several years before the vehicles were located in Sonora.
The haul included several high-end brands and models, such as:
- Ford Bronco (2025 model)
- Cadillac Escalade (2023 model)
- Toyota Grand Highlander (2024 model)
- Chevrolet Silverado (2022 model)
- Other brands included Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Land Rover, Volkswagen, Chrysler, Buick, Hyundai, and Jeep.
Drug Discovery and Inter-Agency Cooperation
During the processing of the seized property, authorities identified a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Premium 4WD that was not reported stolen. The vehicle was found to be armored and contained narcotics.
While officials have not yet specified the type or quantity of the drugs, the find has been integrated into the broader investigation. The operation was a coordinated effort involving the Criminal Investigation Agency (AMIC), the National Defense Secretariat (SEDENA), the Navy (SEMAR), the National Guard (GN), and the State Public Security Police.
Following the seizure, all 18 units were transported from Puerto Peñasco to Sonoyta for further processing. Authorities stated that investigations remain ongoing to establish the full origin of the vehicles, determine their connection to the reported crimes, and identify any further criminal responsibilities.
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