The Mexican Army Kills El Mencho CJNG Leader during a major military raid in Tapalpa, Jalisco.
El Mencho, whose real name was Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, led the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
Officials say he was wounded in a firefight and later died while being flown to Mexico City.
How the Operation Happened
Mexican forces launched a large counter-cartel mission.
The operation included:
- Mexican Army troops
- National Guard units
- Mexican Air Force support
- Federal intelligence teams
U.S. agencies provided intelligence support.
During the raid, troops seized armored vehicles and heavy weapons. Authorities arrested two cartel members at the scene.
Who Was El Mencho?
El Mencho co-founded the CJNG around 2007.
He built it into one of Mexico’s most powerful drug cartels.
U.S. officials claimed the CJNG trafficked cocaine, meth, heroin, and fentanyl into the United States.
The U.S. government had placed a $15 million reward on him.
In 2025, the Trump administration labeled the CJNG a foreign terrorist organization.
Cartel Retaliation Sparks Nationwide Violence
After the Mexican Army killed El Mencho CJNG Leader, violence spread fast.
Authorities reported:
- More than 70 deaths
- 252 road blockades across Mexico
- Attacks in at least 12 states
- 25 National Guard members killed
Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro declared a state of emergency. Public transportation stopped in parts of the state.
Guadalajara streets emptied as people stayed indoors.
Puerto Vallarta Travel Disrupted
Puerto Vallarta saw burning vehicles and heavy gunfire.
The U.S. Embassy urged Americans to shelter in place.
Several airlines canceled flights, including:
- Southwest Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- Air Canada
Travelers faced delays and cancellations across western Mexico.
White House Confirms U.S. Support
The White House confirmed that U.S. intelligence helped plan the mission.
Officials praised Mexico’s military for targeting a top cartel leader.
Leaders called El Mencho one of the most dangerous drug traffickers in the region.
A Succession War Inside the CJNG
Security experts warn the CJNG may face a power struggle.
A fight for control could spark more violence.
Mexican authorities claim they will keep strong security in Jalisco and nearby states.
The death of El Mencho is a major blow to the cartel. However, officials warn the drug war is far from over.
