Mexico cartel leader “El Mencho” killed in military operation, violence spreads across multiple states

Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, the powerful leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and one of the world’s most-wanted drug traffickers, has died following a major Mexican military operation, officials confirmed Sunday.

The operation took place in Tapalpa, a town in the western state of Jalisco. Mexican defense authorities said cartel gunmen exchanged fire with security forces during the raid. Four suspected gang members were killed at the scene, and Oseguera was seriously wounded. He later died while being transported by air to Mexico City. Three Mexican military personnel were also injured.

US officials confirmed that an interagency task force provided supporting information for the operation, but emphasized it was carried out by Mexican forces.

Oseguera, a former police officer, led CJNG as it grew into one of Mexico’s most powerful and violent criminal organizations. He had been wanted by both Mexican and US authorities for years, with multimillion-dollar rewards offered for information leading to his capture. US prosecutors accused him of overseeing fentanyl production and trafficking into the United States. He was sanctioned in 2025 as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist.

His death triggered a wave of violence across multiple states, including Jalisco, Michoacán, and Guanajuato. Authorities reported buses and businesses set on fire, highways blocked, and clashes between suspected cartel members and security forces. Public transportation was suspended in parts of Jalisco, and residents were urged to stay indoors.

Fires were reported in the resort city of Puerto Vallarta, and some international flights were suspended. The US State Department issued a travel advisory urging Americans in affected regions to shelter in place.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum praised the security forces involved but acknowledged the ongoing unrest. Analysts have long warned that targeting cartel leaders can fragment criminal groups and spark retaliatory violence.

The operation comes amid mounting pressure from President Donald Trump on Mexico to curb drug trafficking, though Sheinbaum has rejected any foreign military action inside Mexico, emphasizing cooperation rather than intervention.

Authorities say security operations remain underway as the country works to stabilize affected regions.

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