Story highlights Mexican authorities say no shots were fired when they captured the alleged head of the Zetas

United States has an extradition request for Omar Trevino Morales

Official: He's "one of the most dangerous and bloodthirsty criminals in Mexico"

(CNN) The reputed leader of one of Mexico's most ruthless cartels walked with his head bowed Wednesday as federal forces escorted him into an armored vehicle in the country's capital.

Authorities closed in on Zetas boss Omar Trevino Morales in predawn darkness, capturing him in an operation without firing a single shot, said Monte Alejandro Rubido, head of Mexico's national security council.

There are 11 pending criminal cases against him, and the crimes Trevino is accused of committing make him "one of the most dangerous and bloodthirsty criminals in Mexico," said Tomas Zeron, director of criminal investigations for the Attorney General's Office.

Speaking later in the day to reporters at Mexico City's airport, Zeron said the drug kingpin's legal situation would be assessed after he makes a statement to investigators.

U.S. officials have requested his extradition, Zeron said.

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