Major Operation Targets ‘North Cone Grafts‘ Criminal network, Mother of Fugitive ‘The Monster’ Detained

Ica, Peru – June 6, 2024 – A large-scale police operation led by the Prosecutor’s Office Against Organized Criminality has resulted in the arrest of 27 individuals allegedly linked to the “North Cone Grafts” criminal institution, a group accused of money laundering and supporting the activities of Erick Moreno Hernández, known as “El Monstruo” (“The Monster”), one of Peru’s most wanted criminals. While moreno Hernández remains at large,the operation represents a significant blow to the network’s financial and logistical capabilities.

The raid, conducted across multiple locations, led to the arrest of 25 individuals with outstanding arrest warrants and two others apprehended in flagrante delicto – including Martina Esther Hernández de la Cruz, the mother of Moreno Hernández. The operation specifically targeted the financial arm of the organization, which authorities say was used to funnel funds abroad to support Moreno Hernández and finance extortion activities.

Details of the Operation & Allegations:

According to Colonel Manuel Cruz Chamba of the National Police of Peru (PNP), the organization specialized in receiving illicit funds, ofen from kidnappings and extortion, and then laundering them through established companies for international transfer. Investigators believe these funds were used to sustain Moreno Hernández and his associates, both financially and logistically, while thay carried out criminal operations.

martina Hernández’s arrest is particularly noteworthy. While she did not have a preliminary arrest warrant, authorities discovered explosive materials and a substantial amount of cash during a search of her home in the Santo Domingo de Guzmán urbanization in ica. Further examination revealed a Western Union card, cards linked to the Federal Revenue Farm (likely referring to Brazilian tax authorities), a passport, a cell phone, and QR codes for the Peruvian mobile payment platforms Yape and Izipay, all registered in her name. Preliminary investigations suggest she received funds from at least one kidnapping and subsequently transferred them. Authorities also confirmed she has a history of travel to Brazil.

On June 4th,a judge ordered 15 days of preliminary detention for Hernández,investigating her for alleged membership in a criminal organization. She is currently being held at the Judicial Power of Callao.

Context: ‘El Monstruo’ and ‘North Cone Grafts’

Erick Moreno Hernández, “El Monstruo,” is a high-profile criminal figure wanted in connection with a range of serious crimes, including kidnapping, extortion, and organized crime. The “North cone Grafts” organization, operating primarily in the northern coastal region of Peru, is believed to be a key component of his criminal enterprise. The group’s name refers to the geographical area of their operations, and their alleged specialization in illicit financial transfers.

Key Details Not Included in Original Article (Based on broader reporting):

Previous Attempts to Apprehend Moreno Hernández: There have been previous reports of attempted captures of Moreno Hernández, including a recent claim by the PNP that he was not apprehended during an operation in Brazil (as clarified in a linked RPP article). This highlights the difficulty in locating and capturing him.
Specific Companies Involved: While the article mentions companies being used for money laundering, it does not name them. Further investigation is likely to reveal the identities of these entities.
Extent of the network: authorities believe the “North Cone Grafts” network extends beyond Peru, with connections in Brazil and potentially other South American countries.
Value of Seized Assets: The article does not specify the amount of cash seized during the raid on Martina Hernández’s home, or the total value of assets seized during the broader operation.Angle: This operation underscores the increasing focus on dismantling the financial infrastructure that supports organized crime in Peru. The arrest of a key figure’s mother demonstrates the authorities’ willingness to target the entire network,including family members suspected of aiding criminal activities. The investigation into the flow of funds to Brazil suggests a potential international dimension to the case, requiring cooperation with Brazilian law enforcement.