Mexican forces killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, known as El Mencho, on Sunday. The operation has sparked widespread violence and left US tourists stranded, prompting urgent safety warnings.
How El Mencho Was Killed
The Mexican army, backed by the air force and special forces, launched a targeted operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco. US intelligence assisted in locating the 59-year-old cartel boss.
During the raid, cartel gunmen opened fire. Four cartel members were killed, and three others, including Oseguera Cervantes, were wounded. The cartel leader later died while being airlifted to Mexico City.
Authorities seized rocket launchers, armored vehicles, and other weapons at the scene. Two suspects were detained, while three soldiers were injured during the operation.
Violent Reprisals Across Mexico
Within hours, the cartel launched coordinated attacks across 20 states. Vehicles were set on fire, and roads were blocked in over 250 locations. Jalisco and neighboring states experienced the heaviest violence.
Guadalajara, the state capital, became a ghost town as residents stayed indoors. Puerto Vallarta saw panic among tourists, with reports of explosions and burning vehicles.
US Tourists Stranded as Flights Suspended
American travelers in Puerto Vallarta described the scene as a “war zone,” with smoke rising from the city. Tourists were instructed to remain in their hotels while Air Canada, United Airlines, Aeromexico, and American Airlines suspended flights to the region.
The US State Department issued a security alert advising citizens in Jalisco, Tamaulipas, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Nuevo León to shelter in place.
Government Response
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum reassured citizens that most areas remain safe and business continues as usual. Schools in several states, however, were canceled as a precaution.
Authorities cleared most roadblocks by Sunday night, but the violence underscores the cartel’s ability to disrupt daily life even after losing its leader.
What’s Next for the Jalisco Cartel?
The death of El Mencho leaves a power vacuum in Mexico’s most powerful drug cartel. Analysts warn that violent reprisals and turf wars may continue as factions vie for control.
