Story perspectives

Mexican Navy Captures ‘El Jardinero’ Shotless After 19-Month Hunt

4/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

Mexican Navy forces ended a 19-month operation by capturing cartel leader Audias Flores Silva (“El Jardinero”) in El Mirador, Nayarit, without firing a shot.
The raid relied on over a year of intelligence, including six helicopters and surveillance aircraft that monitored Flores Silva’s movements.
DEA Administrator Terrance C. Cole called the arrest a step toward a fentanyl-free America and noted a $5 million reward for information leading to Flores Silva’s capture.

1 of 1

Story summary

Mexican Navy forces ended a 19-month operation by capturing cartel leader Audias Flores Silva (“El Jardinero”) in El Mirador, Nayarit, without firing a shot.
The raid relied on over a year of intelligence, including six helicopters and surveillance aircraft that monitored Flores Silva’s movements.
DEA Administrator Terrance C. Cole called the arrest a step toward a fentanyl-free America and noted a $5 million reward for information leading to Flores Silva’s capture.