Police in Mexico have arrested a man they accuse of being the mastermind behind the murder of a popular mayor.
Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan, was shot dead on 1 November at a public event marking the Day of the Dead.
Manzo was an outspoken critic of cartel violence in his home state of Michoacán, and his assassination triggered mass protests.
Mexico's security minister stated that the suspect, linked to the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), had ordered Manzo's murder.
This arrest represents a key step in dismantling the criminal structure responsible for this attack, said Security Minister Omar García Harfuch.
He did not specify the motive behind the attack, but local officials often fall victim to criminal gangs for failing to comply with their demands.
The suspect, identified as Jorge Amando, had reportedly communicated with the individuals who carried out the attack via WhatsApp, pressuring them to act even with many people present.
While attending a Day of the Dead ceremony with his family, Manzo was shot seven times, sending attendees fleeing for safety.
Manzo had previously spoken out against the extortion and threats that avocado growers in the region faced from criminal groups, and had urged the federal government to increase efforts against drug cartels.
The Jalisco New Generation Cartel, known for its involvement in drug trafficking, kidnapping, and extortion, has been notorious for targeting public officials.
Following Manzo's murder, there were significant protests, including a large rally in Mexico City where many demonstrators carried placards featuring the mayor's image, chanting, We are all Carlos Manzo. Some clashes with police occurred during these protests.
