A multi-agency law enforcement team has arrested a woman suspected of leading a significant human trafficking operation in Albuquerque. This arrest is seen as a crucial step in combating organized crime in New Mexico.

Yajair Lizzet Lara, also known as Lara Mendez, was apprehended on February 5th by agents from the Governor’s Organized Crime Commission, New Mexico State Police, and the U.S. Border Patrol. According to law enforcement, Lara is among the top five human traffickers in Albuquerque.

"This is a victory in our battle against the scourge of human trafficking," stated Gov. Lujan Grisham. "The arrest of a top trafficker sends a clear message that we will not tolerate the exploitation of our most vulnerable. This is just the beginning—we will continue to work with law enforcement and advocates to see that justice is served."

Sam Bregman, Bernalillo County District Attorney and Chairman of the Organized Crime Commission, emphasized their ongoing efforts: "The Organized Crime Commission is relentless and will continue to go after people who traffic human beings."

Investigators allege that Lara led an organization operating a stash house in Albuquerque, collecting over $500,000 by illegally smuggling migrants from Mexico into New Mexico and extorting payments from them.

Lara was arrested by border patrol agents in Oklahoma City on Wednesday evening and is being transported back to Albuquerque to face federal charges of human smuggling.

Her arrest is part of Operation Disruption, which began last fall along the New Mexico/Mexico border with the aim of targeting and arresting human traffickers.