Mexico: Mexico’s security forces have eliminated one of the country’s most feared criminal figures, Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho,” during a military operation in western Mexico, officials confirmed Sunday.
The Defense Ministry said the operation took place in the mountain town of Tapalpa, located southwest of Guadalajara. Troops attempting to detain the cartel leader came under heavy gunfire. Oseguera was seriously wounded in the clash and later died while being transported by air to Mexico City.
Authorities reported that four suspected gunmen were killed at the scene, while three others — including Oseguera — later succumbed to their injuries. Two individuals were arrested. Security personnel also seized armored vehicles, rocket launchers and a cache of high-powered firearms. Three members of the armed forces were injured and remain under medical care.
Oseguera headed the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, often referred to as CJNG, which emerged in 2009 and grew into one of Mexico’s most dominant trafficking organizations. The cartel has been heavily involved in smuggling fentanyl and other narcotics into the United States.
The US Embassy in Mexico said the mission was conducted by Mexican special forces within a cooperative framework between the two countries, with U.S. agencies providing intelligence support.
Highways Blocked, Vehicles Torched
In the hours following news of the cartel chief’s death, violence spread rapidly across Jalisco and nearby regions. Suspected cartel members set up roadblocks and ignited vehicles to obstruct security movements — a tactic frequently deployed in response to high-profile arrests or killings.
In Puerto Vallarta, smoke rose above main roads as cars and trucks burned. Videos shared online showed anxious travelers running through the airport. Airline operator Air Canada temporarily halted flights to the coastal destination, citing safety concerns.
Meanwhile, parts of Guadalajara witnessed similar scenes, with burning vehicles disrupting traffic. The city is slated to host fixtures during the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, raising concerns about security preparedness.
The US Department of State issued advisories urging American citizens in Jalisco and other states — including Tamaulipas, Michoacán, Guerrero and Nuevo León — to remain indoors amid ongoing operations. Canadian officials advised their nationals in Puerto Vallarta to shelter in place.
Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus suspended public transportation and called on residents to stay home as authorities sought to stabilize the situation.
A Major Target
For years, Oseguera ranked among the most wanted fugitives in Mexico and the United States. Washington had announced a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to his capture. Earlier this year, under President Donald Trump, the cartel was formally designated a foreign terrorist organization, intensifying pressure on Mexico to curb drug trafficking networks.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum praised the armed forces for the operation and appealed for calm. While she has previously questioned strategies centered on eliminating cartel leaders — arguing they can splinter criminal groups and trigger further violence — Sunday’s strike marks one of the most significant blows against organized crime in recent years.
Local officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, reported additional casualties linked to unrest following the operation, including security personnel targeted in separate incidents.
As authorities work to contain retaliatory attacks, attention now turns to whether the dismantling of the cartel’s leadership will weaken its grip — or ignite a fresh wave of instability in a region already grappling with organized crime.
