Mexico Kills CJNG Leader ‘El Mencho’, US Praises Operation
Washington calls the operation a major blow to transnational drug trafficking after Mexico confirms the death of its most-wanted cartel leader
Mexico | PUREWILAYAH.COM - Mexico’s security forces have killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), following a military operation in the western state of Jalisco, Mexican authorities said.
According to the Mexican Defense Ministry, Oseguera was wounded during a joint army-led raid in the town of Tapalpa and later died while being transported by air to Mexico City. He was regarded as Mexico’s most-wanted criminal and one of the most sought-after drug traffickers by US authorities.
Oseguera led CJNG, one of the most powerful criminal organizations in Mexico and a major supplier of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamines to the US market. Washington designated the group a foreign terrorist organization last year and had offered rewards of up to $15 million for information leading to his capture.
US Welcomes Outcome, Confirms Intelligence Support
US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau praised the operation, calling it a significant development for regional and global security.
“I’ve just been informed that Mexican security forces have killed ‘El Mencho,’ one of the bloodiest and most ruthless drug kingpins,” Landau wrote on X, describing the outcome as a victory for Mexico, the United States, Latin America, and beyond.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the United States provided intelligence assistance. She said Oseguera was a top target for both governments due to his role in fentanyl trafficking, adding that the administration of President Donald Trump thanked the Mexican military for its cooperation.
Armed Clashes and Seizures During the Raid
Mexican authorities said troops came under fire during the operation. Several suspected cartel gunmen were killed, others were wounded or arrested, and security forces seized weapons, including armored vehicles and rocket launchers.
Officials said follow-up operations are ongoing to dismantle remaining CJNG cells in the region.
Unrest Spreads, Violence Reported in Multiple States
The killing triggered unrest across parts of Jalisco, with videos circulating online showing burning vehicles and attacks on commercial buildings. Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro declared a state of emergency and urged residents to stay indoors.
Footage from Guadalajara Airport, Mexico’s third-largest airport, showed passengers fleeing as gunfire was heard nearby. Authorities suspended all flights in and out of Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta due to security concerns.
CJNG-linked violence was also reported in Michoacán, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, Colima, and Oaxaca. Videos showed armed cartel members patrolling streets as gunfire echoed in several locations.
Mexican authorities said security operations remain in place to contain the violence and prevent further escalation following the death of the cartel leader. (PW)