Background and Relevance
Hernán Bermúdez Requena, a former Secretary of Public Security in Tabasco and the alleged leader of the criminal organization known as “La Barredora,” has been apprehended in Paraguay, according to Omar García Harfuch, Mexico’s Secretary of Citizen Security and Protection.
Bermúdez Requena had been evading justice since a warrant for his arrest was issued in February. His capture resulted from a joint operation led by the National Intelligence Center (CNI) and in line with President Claudia Sheinbaum’s “Zero Tolerance for Corruption” directive.
Who is Hernán Bermúdez Requena?
Bermúdez Requena served as the Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection in Tabasco. Following an arrest warrant issued against him in February, he became a fugitive.
He was identified as the leader of “La Barredora” and faced charges for criminal association, extortion, and express kidnapping in Tabasco. Additionally, an Interpol Red Notice was issued for him by Interpol Mexico on July 17, 2025.
Arrest Details and Collaboration
García Harfuch acknowledged the collaboration of Paraguayan authorities in this successful operation. He emphasized the crucial role of the Financial Intelligence Unit and the National Intelligence Center in achieving this outcome.
Key Actions and Impact
- Joint Operation: The arrest was the result of a coordinated effort between Mexican and Paraguayan law enforcement agencies, highlighting international cooperation in combating transnational crime.
- Zero Tolerance Policy: The operation underscores President Sheinbaum’s commitment to eradicating corruption and criminal activities within her jurisdiction.
- CNI and FIU Involvement: The successful capture demonstrates the importance of intelligence gathering and financial tracking in apprehending high-profile criminals.
- Interpol Red Notice: Bermúdez Requena’s international notoriety, as evidenced by the Red Notice, emphasizes the global implications of his criminal activities.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who was Hernán Bermúdez Requena? He was the former Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection in Tabasco, accused of leading the criminal organization “La Barredora.”
- What charges did he face? Bermúdez Requena was charged with criminal association, extortion, and express kidnapping in Tabasco.
- Why was he arrested in Paraguay? He was apprehended as a result of a joint operation between Mexican and Paraguayan authorities, following an arrest warrant issued in February.
- What is the significance of the Interpol Red Notice? The Red Notice issued by Interpol Mexico on July 17, 2025, highlights the international nature of his criminal activities and notoriety.
