Threat of Further Violence Looms After Mexican Cartel Rampage

Published: 25 February 2026 . The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

Mexico is confronting the prospect of intensified violence following a wave of chaos triggered by the death of Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, the long‑time head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and one of the country’s most notorious drug bosses. Federal and state authorities have struggled to contain outbreaks of retaliation by cartel elements in the days since a military operation killed El Mencho in the state of Jalisco, with residents and security analysts warning that further unrest could follow.

The killing of El Mencho over the past weekend led to an immediate and widespread violent response by cartel loyalists. Attacks included arson, roadblocks, armed clashes with security forces and disruptions to transport infrastructure across multiple western and central states, including Jalisco and its capital Guadalajara. Schools were temporarily shut, flights were cancelled, and authorities issued shelter‑in‑place warnings for residents and foreign travellers in several regions affected by the unrest.

Guadalajara residents told international media that the atmosphere in the city remains tense several days after the initial rampage, with many fearful of further outbreaks of violence as cartel members seek revenge for the death of their leader. Local sources reported that the unrest has affected normal life, from business closures to heightened security operations.

The disruption has extended beyond Mexico’s borders. In the neighboring US state of Texas, Governor Greg Abbott ordered an increase in law enforcement deployments along the Mexico–US border, citing concerns that the spike in cartel violence could have spill‑over implications for public safety and transnational crime threats. Federal and state authorities are monitoring the situation closely, emphasising border security and coordination with Mexican counterparts.

The CJNG is considered one of Mexico’s most powerful criminal organisations, deeply involved in the trafficking of methamphetamine, fentanyl and other illicit substances, and known for employing heavy‑weapons tactics against rivals and state forces. The killing of its leader represents a major blow to the cartel’s hierarchical structure but also raises questions about the potential for a power vacuum, internal factional fighting, or new leaders emerging — scenarios that analysts warn could spark further violence.

Mexican authorities have deployed additional troops and security personnel to restore order and prevent attacks on critical infrastructure, but the threat of renewed violence continues to weigh heavily on communities in affected regions. The federal government has reiterated that it is prioritising public safety, while urging civilians to remain vigilant as operations continue to stabilise areas hit hardest by cartel retaliation.

Read More At>>