Mexican Cartel Violence Escalates After Notorious Leader El Menchos Death

Mexican Army Kills Notorious Cartel Leader in Jalisco

In a military operation, Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho”, was killed in a shootout at his home state of Jalisco on Sunday. The Mexican army attempted to capture him, and the operation resulted in widespread violence across the country.

The Jalisco New Generation Cartel, led by “El Mencho”, is one of Mexico’s most powerful and fastest-growing criminal organisations. It has been involved in trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine to the United States. The cartel has also staged attacks against government officials who challenged it.

Following the killing of “El Mencho”, cartel members responded with violence across 20 states, blocking roads and setting fire to vehicles. Authorities announced late on Sunday that they had cleared most of the over 250 cartel roadblocks.

President Claudia Sheinbaum urged calm, while authorities worked to restore order. The White House confirmed that the US provided intelligence support for the operation to capture “El Mencho” and applauded Mexico’s army for taking down a wanted criminal. The US Department of State offered a reward of up to $15m for information leading to his arrest.

The Jalisco New Generation Cartel was designated a “Foreign Terrorist Organization” by the Trump administration in February 2025. President Sheinbaum has faced pressure from the public and international partners to show results against drug trafficking since taking office. The cartel is known for its aggressive attacks on the military, including using drones and planting mines.

The killing of “El Mencho” comes 10 years after his rival, Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman, was captured in a joint US-Mexico operation.

Source: Al Jazeera