World News
El Mencho Killed in Mexican Army Operation: Highways Blocked, Cars Burned Across Jalisco
In a dramatic and high-risk military operation, Mexican forces have killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, better known as “El Mencho,” the feared leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). His death marks one of the most significant blows to organized crime in Mexico in recent years.
In a dramatic and high-risk military operation, Mexican forces have killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, better known as “El Mencho,” the feared leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). His death marks one of the most significant blows to organized crime in Mexico in recent years.
The operation unfolded Sunday in Tapalpa, a mountainous town in Jalisco, about two hours from Guadalajara. According to Mexico’s Defense Department, El Mencho was wounded during a gun battle with troops and later died while being airlifted to Mexico City.
A Long-Awaited Target
For years, El Mencho had been one of the most wanted criminals in the world. The US State Department had offered up to $15 million for information leading to his capture. In February, the Trump administration designated CJNG as a foreign terrorist organization, increasing international pressure on Mexico to act decisively.
CJNG, founded in 2009, rapidly became one of Mexico’s most violent and influential criminal groups. The cartel is widely known for trafficking massive quantities of fentanyl and other narcotics into the United States, fueling a deadly opioid crisis.
Operation Turns Deadly
The military raid was met with intense resistance. Four suspected cartel members were killed at the scene, and three others — including El Mencho — later died from their injuries. Two suspects were arrested. Authorities also seized armored vehicles, rocket launchers, and other high-powered weapons.
Three members of Mexico’s armed forces were wounded and are receiving medical care.
The US Embassy in Mexico confirmed that the operation was conducted by Mexican special forces with complementary intelligence support from U.S. authorities, highlighting the ongoing bilateral security cooperation between the two countries.
Highways Blocked, Vehicles Set Ablaze
But the violence did not end with the operation.
Within hours of the news spreading, chaos erupted across Jalisco and neighboring states. Cartel members set vehicles on fire and blocked major highways — a tactic frequently used to disrupt military movements and create fear.
In tourist hotspot Puerto Vallarta, thick plumes of smoke filled the skyline. Videos shared online showed frightened travelers running through the airport. Air Canada temporarily suspended flights to the city due to the security situation.
In Guadalajara, Mexico’s second-largest city and a future host of upcoming World Cup matches, burning vehicles brought traffic to a standstill. Schools across Jalisco were closed on Monday, and public transportation was suspended.
The US State Department issued travel warnings urging Americans in Jalisco, Tamaulipas, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Nuevo León to remain in safe locations. Canada’s embassy also advised its citizens in Puerto Vallarta to shelter in place.
Political Pressure and Security Challenges
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum praised the security forces and called for calm, though the situation underscores the complex challenges facing her administration.
Sheinbaum has previously criticized the traditional “kingpin strategy” — removing cartel leaders in the hope of weakening criminal organizations — arguing it often leads to fragmentation and fresh waves of violence. Her predecessor held similar concerns.
Security remains one of Mexico’s most pressing issues. Since Donald Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency last year, cross-border cooperation and anti-drug enforcement have been under renewed scrutiny.
What Comes Next?
While the death of El Mencho is a major symbolic victory for the Mexican government, experts warn that the immediate aftermath could bring instability. Historically, power vacuums within major cartels often trigger internal battles and regional violence.
For residents of Jalisco, Sunday’s events were a stark reminder of how deeply organized crime still shapes daily life — from sudden roadblocks to school closures and flight cancellations.
The coming days will reveal whether this operation weakens CJNG’s grip — or marks the beginning of another turbulent chapter in Mexico’s ongoing fight against cartel violence.
