In a devastating blow to the world of organized crime, the Mexican Armed Forces brought an end to the life of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known internationally as “El Mencho,” in a precise and highly targeted military operation in the state of Jalisco. This operation culminated intensive intelligence efforts and close security cooperation between Mexican and U.S. authorities, thus concluding the reign of one of the most wanted men on the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) list.
Details of the military operation in Tabalpa
The Mexican Ministry of Defense confirmed in an official statement that the operation targeted a secret stronghold in the town of Tabalpa, located southwest of Guadalajara. Heavy fighting ensued, during which "El Mencho" was fatally wounded and died while being airlifted to Mexico City. The raid was met with fierce resistance from the mafia leader's guards, resulting in the deaths of four gunmen and injuries to others. A massive arsenal, including armored vehicles and rocket launchers, was also seized, reflecting the formidable military capabilities of this organization.
Who is “El Mencho” and the Jalisco Cartel?
Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, the founder and de facto leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), currently considered the most powerful and violent criminal organization in Mexico, surpasses even the notorious Sinaloa Cartel in influence and armament. "El Mencho's" leadership has been characterized by the adoption of paramilitary tactics, the use of explosive-laden drones, and the spreading of terror through displays of military might. The United States has offered a $15 million reward for information leading to his capture, given his direct responsibility for flooding the American market with tons of synthetic drugs, particularly fentanyl.
A wave of violence and security chaos
As soon as news of the leader's death spread, the state of Jalisco and surrounding areas descended into chaos. Cartel members carried out what is known as "narcobloqueos," blocking main roads and setting buses and trucks ablaze to paralyze security forces and prevent reinforcements from arriving. The violence spread to tourist areas, with plumes of smoke seen rising in the coastal city of Puerto Vallarta, causing panic among tourists and local residents.
Economic and political repercussions
The event cast a dark shadow over transportation and tourism, as major American and Canadian airlines were forced to suspend flights to Vallarta International Airport and other airports in the region, fearing attacks on aircraft or a deterioration in the security situation. Observers believe that the killing of "El Mencho" could lead to a period of internal instability within the cartel, potentially igniting bloody succession battles or causing the organization to splinter into smaller, more violent groups—a recurring scenario in the history of the Mexican drug war.
