Mexico: In a landmark development in Mexico’s long-running battle against organised crime, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes — widely known as “El Mencho” — has been killed during a large-scale military operation in the western state of Jalisco.
The Mexican Army confirmed that Oseguera, the 59-year-old leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), died after sustaining serious injuries in a confrontation with federal security forces in the town of Tapalpa. According to Mexico’s defence ministry, he was critically wounded during the clash and later succumbed to his injuries while being airlifted to Mexico City.
High-Intensity Operation
The operation reportedly involved special forces units, aircraft from the Mexican Air Force, and intelligence coordination that included inputs from United States authorities. Officials stated that at least six suspected cartel members were killed in the raid, three soldiers were injured, and two suspects were arrested. Security forces also seized a significant cache of heavy weapons, including rocket launchers.
Oseguera had long been regarded as one of the world’s most wanted fugitives. The United States had announced a $15 million reward for information leading to his capture. Under his leadership, the CJNG expanded rapidly after its formation in 2009, becoming one of Mexico’s most dominant and violent criminal organisations, known for its military-style tactics and aggressive territorial expansion.
Retaliation Sparks Widespread Unrest
News of his death triggered swift retaliation from cartel operatives across Jalisco and neighbouring states. More than 20 roads were blocked with burning vehicles, paralysing major highways and disrupting transportation networks. Violence extended to Michoacán and the coastal tourist hub of Puerto Vallarta, while parts of Guadalajara witnessed business closures and residents were urged to remain indoors as smoke plumes rose over several districts.
Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, called for calm and assured citizens that federal and state authorities were working to restore order. She emphasised that despite the unrest in specific regions, most parts of the country remained stable.
The governor of Jalisco, Pablo Lemus Navarro, issued a “code red” advisory, urging residents to stay at home. Public transport services were suspended across the state.
International flight operations were also affected. United Airlines, American Airlines, and Air Canada cancelled services to Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara amid security concerns.
Advisory for Indian Nationals
In response to the escalating situation, the Embassy of India, Mexico City issued an advisory urging Indian nationals in affected regions — including Jalisco (Puerto Vallarta, Chapala and Guadalajara), Tamaulipas (including Reynosa), parts of Michoacán, Guerrero and Nuevo León — to shelter in place until further notice.
The advisory recommended avoiding areas with active law enforcement operations, staying away from crowds, monitoring local media updates, and strictly following instructions from local authorities. In case of emergencies, individuals were advised to dial 911.
Profile of ‘El Mencho’
Born in 1966, Oseguera spent time in the United States during the 1980s before being deported following a drug-related conviction. He later rose through the ranks of organised crime networks in Mexico and eventually assumed control of the CJNG. Under his command, the cartel evolved into a transnational criminal enterprise engaged in trafficking cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin and fentanyl into the United States and other markets.
He faced multiple indictments in US federal courts on charges including drug trafficking, weapons offences and operating a continuing criminal enterprise.
His death marks one of the most consequential blows to organised crime in Mexico in recent years, potentially reshaping the balance of power among the country’s criminal syndicates while raising concerns over further instability in the immediate aftermath.
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