Mexican authorities have confirmed the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho,” during a large-scale military operation in western Mexico. Oseguera was identified by officials as the leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of the country’s most dominant and violent criminal groups.

The operation, carried out in Tapalpa, Jalisco, marks what could be one of the most significant blows to organized crime in Mexico in recent years.

How the Military Operation Unfolded

According to Mexico’s Defence Ministry, the raid was executed on Sunday by Army Special Forces, working alongside the National Intelligence Centre and the Attorney General’s Office. Authorities described the operation as the result of months of intelligence gathering and coordination.

Tapalpa, located in the western state of Jalisco, has long been regarded as a stronghold of the CJNG.

Military officials said that troops came under fire during the mission and responded in what they described as legitimate self-defense. Seven alleged cartel members were killed, including Oseguera. Four died at the scene, while three others succumbed to severe injuries while being airlifted to Mexico City for treatment.

Two additional suspects were arrested during the raid.

Security forces reportedly seized a cache of high-powered weapons, armored vehicles, and rocket launchers capable of targeting aircraft — underscoring the firepower at the cartel’s disposal.

Three members of the special forces unit were wounded in the confrontation and were transported to medical facilities in Mexico City.

The Defence Ministry noted that the operation was supported by intelligence shared by U.S. authorities as part of ongoing bilateral cooperation between Mexico and the United States.

Rewards and International Cooperation

Both the Mexican and U.S. governments had placed substantial rewards on Oseguera’s capture.

The United States had offered $15 million for information leading to his arrest, while Mexico had pledged 300 million pesos. Oseguera had long been on Washington’s most-wanted list due to the cartel’s alleged involvement in drug trafficking operations spanning North America, Europe, and Asia.

Who Was “El Mencho”?

Before leading the CJNG, Oseguera was reportedly a former police officer who transitioned into organized crime in the early 1990s. The cartel originated as an armed offshoot of the now-defunct Milenio Cartel before evolving into a dominant criminal enterprise.

Under his leadership, the CJNG expanded rapidly, becoming a key driver of violence across multiple Mexican states. The group gained notoriety for its militarized tactics, public displays of force, and global drug trafficking networks.

Violent Backlash Across Multiple States

Following confirmation of Oseguera’s death, unrest erupted across several regions where the CJNG maintains influence.

In Jalisco, Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro issued a red alert after reports of road blockades, burning vehicles, and armed confrontations surfaced. Residents were urged to remain indoors, and public transportation services were temporarily suspended.

Authorities also reported disturbances in Tamaulipas, Michoacán, and Nayarit, prompting additional deployments of federal security forces.

Mexico’s Security Cabinet released a statement emphasizing that clearing blockades and ensuring civilian safety remained the government’s top priority.

Foreign Governments Issue Travel Warnings

The unrest quickly drew international attention.

The United States urged its citizens in affected regions to shelter in place due to security operations and road closures. The advisory covered Jalisco state — including Puerto Vallarta, Chapala, and Guadalajara — as well as parts of Tamaulipas, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Nuevo León.

Canada’s Foreign Ministry issued a similar warning, noting violence and roadblocks in Jalisco and confirming a shelter-in-place advisory in Puerto Vallarta.

Meanwhile, Air Canada announced the suspension of flights to Puerto Vallarta, citing the ongoing security situation and advising travelers to avoid the airport.

What Happens Next?

While the confirmed killing of Oseguera could disrupt CJNG’s leadership structure, security experts warn that such operations often trigger temporary spikes in violence as factions scramble for control.

The long-term impact on cartel operations remains uncertain. Mexico has experienced similar leadership takedowns in the past, with mixed results in reducing overall violence.

For now, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as tensions remain high across western Mexico.

FAQ

Who was Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes?

He was the alleged leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of Mexico’s most powerful criminal organizations.

How was El Mencho killed?

Mexican authorities say he was killed during a military operation carried out by Army Special Forces in Tapalpa, Jalisco.

How many people died in the operation?

Seven alleged CJNG members were killed, including Oseguera.

Why was there violence after his death?

Authorities believe cartel factions retaliated with road blockades, vehicle burnings, and clashes with security forces.

Did the U.S. play a role in the operation?

Mexican officials said the operation relied partly on intelligence shared by U.S. authorities under bilateral cooperation agreements.