Violence flared across western Mexico after security forces killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, better known as El Mencho, the longtime head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
The 59-year-old, a former police officer who rose to become one of the country’s most feared crime bosses, was fatally wounded during a military raid in his home state of Jalisco on Sunday.
According to officials, soldiers attempting to detain him were met with heavy gunfire from cartel gunmen.
United States In The Mix
Four suspected CJNG members were killed at the scene, and three others — including Oseguera — later died while being transported to Mexico City.
The White House confirmed that the United States provided intelligence assistance in the operation.
The U.S. State Department had previously placed a $15 million bounty on Oseguera, accusing him of overseeing the trafficking of fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine into the United States and directing violent attacks against Mexican security forces and public officials.
Under his leadership, the CJNG evolved from a regional syndicate into one of Mexico’s most powerful and aggressive criminal networks, expanding rapidly through intimidation, strategic alliances and brutal reprisals against rivals.
The Clash
News of his death sparked swift retaliation. In multiple cities across Jalisco and neighboring states, suspected cartel members set up roadblocks, hijacked and torched vehicles, and exchanged gunfire with authorities.
Dramatic videos circulating online showed flames and thick smoke rising over Puerto Vallarta, a major Pacific coast resort city.
Local outlet El Occidental shared footage appearing to capture intense clashes in Tapalpa, a town nestled in the Sierra Madre mountains.
In Guadalajara — set to host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup — travelers at the airport scrambled for safety amid rumors of coordinated attacks.
Armed groups were reportedly seen igniting cars and even setting a petrol station ablaze in parts of the city.
The violence disrupted daily life across the region.
Dozens of flights were canceled, schools suspended classes, and security forces were deployed in force as authorities sought to prevent further escalation.
President Claudia Sheinbaum appealed for calm, stating that most areas of the country remained stable despite the unrest.
Nonetheless, federal and state officials have increased security nationwide amid fears that loyalists to the fallen cartel leader could launch additional reprisals in the coming days.
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While Oseguera’s death marks a significant blow to one of Mexico’s most formidable criminal organisations, the surge of violence underscores the uncertainty — and potential power struggles — that often follow the fall of a cartel kingpin.