Mexico City, Mexico — Mexican security forces have killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho,” the elusive and powerful leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), in a major operation that has triggered waves of retaliatory violence across the country.
The Mexican army announced that Oseguera, one of Mexico’s most wanted drug bosses and a global fugitive, was located in a remote area of Tapalpa, Jalisco, during a coordinated military raid. Reports say he was wounded during a shootout with security forces and later died while being flown to a hospital.
The CJNG under Oseguera was known for its widespread drug trafficking networks, including fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine, and for violent confrontations with authorities and rival gangs.
Military tracked his romantic partner
Authorities had tracked one of his romantic partners (referred to as a girlfriend or mistress in reports; some Mexican media name her as Guadalupe Moreno Carrillo, his most recent known partner).
Military intelligence, aided by U.S. intelligence (including from Northern Command), monitored a trusted associate who escorted the woman to a secluded cabin/safe house where El Mencho was staying.
She arrived on Friday (February 20), spent the night with him, and left. Forces then moved in after her departure, confirming his location.
A fierce shootout ensued: El Mencho (aged 59) tried to flee into nearby undergrowth/forest with bodyguards. He and others were wounded in the clash.
He was captured but died from his injuries while being airlifted (some reports say en route to a hospital in Mexico City or Morelia).
Violent Aftermath and Retaliation
News of his death quickly ignited retaliatory attacks by cartel gunmen in several Mexican states. Roads have been blocked with burning vehicles, and businesses targeted in scenes of chaos reminiscent of past cartel violence. Residents in some areas have been forced to shelter indoors as security forces attempt to restore order.
At least 70 people are reported dead in the violence following the operation, including security personnel and suspected cartel members, according to multiple news outlets.
In cities like Guadalajara, major roads were emptied as civilians stayed home amid fears of further attacks.
Government Response and International Context
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum praised the operation as a major victory in the country’s long fight against organized crime, but acknowledged that the violence underlines ongoing security challenges.
Internationally, U.S. and Mexican authorities have collaborated on intelligence efforts to track cartel leadership. Oseguera had been a priority target with bounty offers reaching into the millions.
Security analysts warn that while eliminating a major cartel boss is significant, it may also lead to power struggles and further instability as rival gangs vie for control.
