In December 1989, the Arellano Félix ordered their gunmen to decimate the Machi Ramírez, a once-prominent crime family that controlled the drug trade in Tijuana prior to their arrival. Once established in Tijuana, the Arellano Félix clan forged important relations with some of the most prominent families in the region.
In December 1989, the Arellano Félix took action against the Machi Ramírez, a significant criminal organization that had previously dominated the Tijuana drug trade.  After establishing themselves in Tijuana, the Arellano Félix forged connections with influential families within the area.