González Sauceda, 27, has two arrest warrants for attempted homicide, as well as for crimes against official institutions and public servants, among other charges.
He is also linked to multiple crimes, including extortion, homicides and attacks on federal forces.
The Secretariat of National Defense carried out the operation with assistance from Mexico’s navy, Attorney General’s Office, the Mexican National Guard and the Department of Security and Citizen Protection.
Authorities said that on Aug. 17, González Sauceda coordinated an attack on the Mexican military in Nuevo Laredo, injuring five soldiers and killing two. “El Ricky” is also accused of the deaths of six officers with the Nuevo León Civil Force.
Following his apprehension, Nuevo Laredo awoke to multiple gunfights and vehicles blocking major highways.
“Family, we have (situations of risk) in several areas of the city,” Nuevo Laredo Mayor Carmen Lilia Canturosas posted on Facebook at about 8:49 a.m. Monday.
“Please do not leave your homes at this moment. Stay safe and take precautions to avoid incidents. I am in coordination with authorities. I will keep you informed.”
The U.S. Consulate in Nuevo Laredo also posted a warning regarding the violence.
“U.S. Consulate Nuevo Laredo has received reports of multiple gunfights throughout the city of Nuevo Laredo. U.S. government personnel have been advised to shelter in place.”
Throughout the morning, residents took to social media to report the gunfire and alert their loved ones to stay sheltered.
Violence also broke out Saturday when Mexican authorities in Nuevo Laredo came under fire near Calle Puerto México in the Solidaridad neighborhood.
Soldiers returned fire, killing three gunmen and injuring one. A vehicle and four long rifles were seized, according to authorities.
