‘El Mencho’ Killed in Military Operation, Triggering Violence

Published: 23 February 2026 . The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

In a dramatic blow to organised crime, Mexican security forces have killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho”, the country’s most-wanted drug lord and leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The death of the notorious capo, who was long pursued by authorities in Mexico and the United States, came during a military operation in the western state of Jalisco.

The Mexican Defence Ministry said El Mencho was wounded during a raid in Tapalpa and died later while being airlifted to Mexico City for medical care. The CJNG boss was wounded after troops came under fire during the specialised action aimed at capturing him.

El Mencho, believed to be about 59 years old, had led the CJNG for decades, growing it into one of Mexico’s most formidable drug trafficking organisations. The cartel is notorious for trafficking vast quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine and other illicit drugs into the United States, and for its use of heavy weapons, armoured vehicles and drones. His criminal network rivalled those of past cartel chiefs such as Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán.

The operation, carried out by Mexican army and security forces with intelligence support from the United States, was described by U.S. officials as a major development in the fight against organised crime. U.S. authorities had previously offered a reward of $15 million for information leading to El Mencho’s capture, underscoring his significance as an international target.

However, the news of his death sparked immediate retaliation from cartel supporters. Across Jalisco and other states including Guanajuato and Michoacán, reports emerged of burning vehicles, road blockades and violent clashes between organised crime groups and security forces. In some areas, authorities activated emergency security protocols, suspended public transport and urged civilians to stay indoors as violence flared.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum hailed the operation as a success for the nation’s security strategy, emphasising strengthened law-enforcement capabilities. Yet officials also cautioned that the death of such a dominant figure could trigger power struggles within the CJNG and further instability.

Analysts say the takedown of El Mencho represents one of the most significant blows to organised crime in recent years — comparable to the capture or removal of other top cartel leaders — but also warn that violence in the wake of his death highlights the deep challenges Mexico still faces in curbing cartel influence.

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