Trump’s Hardline Tariffs Lead to Cartel Leader’s Arrest, Gunfights Erupt [WATCH]

In a swift move that underscores the effectiveness of strong leadership, Mexican authorities have arrested a high-ranking cartel leader following President Trump’s decisive tariff strategy.

Ricardo González Sauceda, better known as “El Ricky” or “Mando R,” was taken into custody Monday in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, after the country’s president caved to Trump’s demand for immediate border security enforcement, as reported by The Gateway Pundit.

🚨BREAKING: Mexican authorities have captured and detained the leader of Cartel del Noreste, “El Ricky.” pic.twitter.com/vcTvkCsAJj

— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) February 3, 2025

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Authorities say González Sauceda is wanted for multiple crimes, including attempted homicide and orchestrating violent attacks against Mexican federal forces.

Reports from the Laredo Morning Times indicate that the cartel boss has also been linked to extortion and the killing of two soldiers in a brutal ambush against the Mexican military.

Mexico’s Navy, National Guard, Attorney General’s Office, and the Department of Security and Citizen Protection worked together to carry out the high-profile arrest.

New photos released of “El Ricky” a regional boss of Mexico’s Northeast Cartel, captured by Mexican troops this morning. pic.twitter.com/aQgxiwPGyq

— Ioan Grillo (@ioangrillo) February 4, 2025

But the crackdown didn’t come without consequences. Following his capture, chaos erupted in the streets of Nuevo Laredo. Gunfights broke out across the city, and cartel members retaliated by blocking highways.

Ongoing ! The airport in the Mexican city of Nuevo Laredo, on the border with the United States, suspended operations in the face of shootings in the area.

As per sources, the arrest of “El Ricky” unleashed terror and violence in Nuevo Laredo .

After the capture, the city… pic.twitter.com/Eog0ih2DlX

— FL360aero (@fl360aero) February 3, 2025

The turmoil prompted Nuevo Laredo’s Mayor Carmen Lilia Canturosas to urge residents to stay indoors. “Family, we have [situations of risk] in several areas of the city,” she posted on Facebook at 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 issued a warning, confirming reports of widespread 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.”

This arrest is part of a broader response to President Trump’s bold trade move. On Saturday, he imposed long-awaited tariffs—25% on Mexico and Canada, and 10% on China.

The economic shock was immediate. Within 24 hours, Canada’s dollar sank to its lowest value since 2003, while Mexico’s peso dropped 2%.

Faced with Trump’s hardline stance, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum quickly agreed to deploy 10,000 soldiers to secure the U.S.-Mexico border, hoping to buy time with a temporary tariff suspension.

Meanwhile, Canada’s liberal leader Justin Trudeau had no choice but to get on board as well. He rolled out a $1.3 billion border security plan that includes new helicopters, surveillance technology, and additional personnel.

Trudeau also promised enhanced cooperation with the U.S. to tackle the flow of fentanyl and illegal migration.

Trump’s pressure campaign appears to be working. He granted a one-month pause on tariffs, but negotiations continue. If Mexico and Canada don’t fully commit to stopping the flood of illegal migrants and deadly fentanyl into the U.S., Trump has made it clear—tariffs will be back in full force.