Amanze Chinonye
Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), has been killed following a military operation in western Mexico, triggering coordinated retaliatory attacks across multiple states.
According to Mexico’s Defense Ministry, Oseguera Cervantes died from injuries sustained during a clash with security forces in Tapalpa, in the state of Jalisco, on February 22, 2026. Authorities said he was wounded during the operation and later succumbed while being transported to Mexico City.
El Mencho, 59, had long been regarded as Mexico’s most wanted drug lord. The U.S. Department of State had offered a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to his capture or conviction, citing his alleged role in trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine and other illicit drugs into the United States.
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Within hours of reports of his death, armed groups believed to be affiliated with CJNG launched coordinated attacks across several regions. Authorities and local media reported vehicles and businesses set ablaze, highways blocked with burning trucks, and gunfire directed at security forces.
The violence spread beyond Jalisco into neighboring states, including Michoacán, Guanajuato, Colima, Nayarit, Aguascalientes and Tamaulipas. Security officials described the unrest as an orchestrated show of force aimed at destabilizing authorities in the immediate aftermath of the cartel leader’s death.
State governments activated emergency security protocols, urging residents to remain indoors while additional federal troops were deployed to restore order. In some cities, public transportation services were suspended and commercial flights were disrupted amid security concerns.
READ ALSO : Mexico Secretly Transfers 55 Top Cartel Bosses To U.S. In Two Covert Operations
The U.S. government issued shelter-in-place advisories for its citizens in affected areas, warning of ongoing security risks. Canadian authorities also cautioned travelers to exercise heightened vigilance.
Casualties and Security Impact
While authorities confirmed the death of Oseguera Cervantes, official figures on casualties linked to the subsequent violence were still being compiled. Reports from security sources indicated that cartel gunmen were killed in the initial raid, with additional fatalities recorded during retaliatory clashes. Infrastructure damage, including burned vehicles and blocked highways, was reported across several states.
The CJNG, founded in the early 2010s, grew into one of Mexico’s most dominant and heavily armed criminal organizations under El Mencho’s leadership. The group has been known for its rapid territorial expansion and direct confrontations with rival cartels and government forces.
Security analysts say the killing of such a high-profile figure could reshape Mexico’s criminal landscape. While some suggest it may weaken the organization’s centralized command, others warn it could spark internal power struggles or renewed violence as factions vie for control.
Mexican federal authorities have yet to announce who may succeed Oseguera Cervantes at the helm of the CJNG, but officials signaled that security operations would continue in a bid to prevent further escalation.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
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