Mexico– Mexico’s armed forces have killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), in a military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, defense officials said Sunday, triggering a wave of violent reprisals, widespread disruptions and the postponement of major sporting events across the country.
El Mencho, one of the most wanted drug traffickers in Mexico and the United States, was wounded during a coordinated assault by Mexican army troops, special forces and air support with complementary U.S. intelligence assistance, and died while being flown to Mexico City, the Defense Ministry reported.
Within hours of confirmation of his death, suspected cartel loyalists staged retaliatory attacks across several states, burning vehicles, blocking highways and engaging in gunfire that authorities said forced schools to close and residents to shelter in place.
The violence prompted the postponement of four high-level Mexican soccer league matches that had been scheduled for Sunday, including top-tier games in both the men’s and women’s divisions, league officials said. Two second-division contests were also called off amid security concerns around Guadalajara, a host city for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
President Claudia Sheinbaum urged citizens to “stay informed and calm” as security forces worked to restore order in affected regions, according to a statement from the presidential office. Authorities reported that many of the initial roadblocks and attacks had been cleared by late Sunday, though some areas remained tense.
El Mencho, 59, co-founded CJNG, which grew into one of Mexico’s most aggressive criminal organizations responsible for trafficking large quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine into the United States and other countries, with a U.S. reward of up to $15 million offered for information leading to his capture.
U.S. officials welcomed the development as a significant disruption to international drug trafficking networks, while emphasizing support for Mexico’s sovereignty in security operations.
The widespread unrest underscored concerns over potential power struggles within CJNG and the broader impact on public safety and travel, with some airlines canceling flights to affected destinations amid smoke and road closures.
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Hannah Price is a digital journalist who covers breaking news, global events, and trending stories with accuracy and speed. She has previously contributed to several online magazines and has built a reputation for verifying facts before publishing. Hannah believes in responsible reporting and aims to present stories in a way that readers can trust.
