On September 26, 2025, a federal judge in Morelia, Michoacán ordered the immediate release of 38 detained members of the religious organization La Luz del Mundo, declaring their arrest unlawful. The group—comprising 37 Mexican citizens and one American—had been apprehended on September 24 in the municipality of Vista Hermosa during a joint operation by the State Police and Mexican Army.
Authorities had detained the individuals at an improvised camp where they were reportedly conducting combat-style training with replica firearms, tactical gear, and knives. One real firearm was also found. The group identified themselves as members of “Jahzer,” a secretive internal security unit of La Luz del Mundo, claiming their mission was to protect church leaders, temples, and mass gatherings.
The Federal Prosecutor’s Office (FGR) attempted to charge them under the Federal Law on Firearms and Explosives, but the judge ruled that the arrest violated due process. The court found that the operation lacked a search warrant and that the evidence—mostly replicas—was insufficient to justify criminal charges.
The marathon hearing lasted over 12 hours at the Federal Criminal Justice Center in Morelia. The judge concluded that the detentions were unconstitutional and ordered the unconditional release of all 38 individuals.
La Luz del Mundo has been under international scrutiny since its leader, Naasón Joaquín García, was arrested in the United States in 2019 on charges including human trafficking and child pornography.
The Michoacán case has reignited debate over religious organizations conducting paramilitary-style activities and the limits of religious freedom under Mexican law.
Source: El Imparcial
