Mexican security authorities reported that Luis Enrique Barragán Chávez, alias El R-5, was killed during a security operation in Michoacán. ^[1] Federal forces deployed a raid in Los Reyes, Michoacán, on August 31, 2026, where an engagement resulted in the reported death of Luis Enrique Barragán Chávez, alias 'El R5'. ^[2] Luis Enrique Barragán Chávez, known as 'El R5', 'El Wicho', or 'El Güicho', was identified as one of the main commanders of the Cartel of Los Reyes, an organization linked to Cárteles Unidos. ^[3] During the confrontation, Barragán Chávez, El R5, and an accomplice were killed alongside the attacking military personnel. ^[4] During the incursion, uniformed officers were attacked with gunfire, and in repelling the aggression to defend their integrity, 'El Güicho' and an accomplice were killed at the scene. ^[5] The Government of Mexico confirmed the death of Luis Enrique Barragán Chávez, alias 'El Güicho' or 'R5', who was the leader of the criminal organization Cártel de Los Reyes. ^[6] Luis Enrique Barragán Chávez was the leader of the Cártel de los Reyes and was identified as a target sought by the United States government. ^[7] The US Department of Justice accused Luis Enrique Barragán Chávez of being the second-in-command of the Cartel of Los Reyes and a leader of an armed group known as the 'R5s' in August 2025. ^[8] The US Department of State offered a reward of up to three million dollars for information leading to the arrest or conviction of Luis Enrique Barragán Chávez. ^[9] The military operation began after personnel from the 12th Military Region in Michoacán were attacked with gunfire by the criminal organization. ^[10] According to federal investigations, Barragán Chávez had assumed absolute control of the criminal structure after the capture of Alfonso Fernández Magallón, alias 'La Quiringua' or 'Poncho', which occurred in early August of that year. ^[11] The neutralization of Barragán Chávez represents a strategic blow to the financial structure of the group, which concentrated its illicit operations in key municipalities of western Michoacán, including Los Reyes, Peribán, Tingüindín, Tocumbo, and Cotija. ^[12]