Mexican Drug Lord El Mencho Killed in Military Operation

Mexican security forces have confirmed the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (JNGC), during a military operation in the western state of Jalisco. The operation followed intelligence reports that led troops to a property in the mountain town of Tapalpa, where El Mencho was located.

Beginning on February 20, Mexican authorities executed a plan that culminated in a predawn raid on February 22. This operation involved special forces backed by the National Guard, as well as military aircraft and helicopters. As troops approached the location, they encountered resistance from armed cartel members, resulting in several hours of gunfire.

El Mencho, 59, had a notorious history marked by violence and drug trafficking, including a prior conviction for heroin trafficking in the United States. He founded the JNGC around 2009, and over the years, it became infamous for its brutal tactics, including the use of military-style weaponry and assaults on security forces. His cartel was heavily involved in the trade of cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl.

After fierce fighting, El Mencho was found wounded alongside two bodyguards and was airlifted to a medical facility. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries during transport. A United States defence official disclosed that a military-led intelligence task force had played a role in this significant operation.

In response to El Mencho's death, violence erupted across Mexico as cartel operatives engaged in retaliatory actions. Notably, a senior JNGC figure known as “El Tuli,” El Mencho's right-hand man, was identified as orchestrating attacks on security forces and roadblocks in several states, which included offering bounties for military personnel. El Tuli was later located and killed in a confrontation with law enforcement.

The aftermath of El Mencho's demise has seen widespread unrest, with reports indicating that at least 30 suspected gang members, 25 National Guard troops, and one civilian were killed due to ongoing violence. Mexican authorities reported over 70 arrests and at least 85 cartel-related roadblocks by the end of February 22.

In reaction to the violence, Mexico implemented significant security measures, deploying 10,000 troops in an effort to restore order. With cities like Puerto Vallarta, popular with tourists, facing travel disruptions, airlines cancelled flights and residents were urged to stay indoors. Reports detailed widespread panic among citizens, with schools remaining closed and businesses shuttering.

While El Mencho's death is a notable victory against organised crime in Mexico, many analysts caution that it may lead to further instability within the JNGC. The absence of a clear succession plan could create a power vacuum, potentially resulting in heightened internal conflicts among cartel factions. This situation is compounded by recent events involving his son, Ruben Oseguera Gonzalez, who has also faced legal challenges in the United States.

As the Mexican government faces the long-term implications of this operation, President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that no U.S. military forces participated in the raid, despite acknowledging support from U.S. intelligence in tracking El Mencho's location. This event marks a significant moment in the ongoing struggle against drug cartels in Mexico, illustrating the complexities involved in dismantling such powerful criminal organisations.