Cartel violence in Mexico intensified over the weekend after the Mexican military killed Nemesio Oseguera, known as “El Mencho,” the powerful leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. His death triggered a wave of retaliatory attacks across the country, forcing residents in several states to shelter at home and pushing authorities to deploy thousands of troops.
The killing of Oseguera, considered one of Mexico’s most violent cartel figures, has raised concerns about renewed power struggles inside the CJNG and further instability in the region.
Jalisco residents emerge cautiously as city reopens
Schools and many businesses in Guadalajara remained closed Monday, with public transport operating at limited capacity and only a handful of stores open. Residents queued outside supermarkets and tortilla shops to stock up on food, fearing renewed blockades and arson attacks.
Authorities removed dozens of burnt vehicles from the streets after cartel members torched cars and shops following news of Oseguera’s death.
Roadblocks continue in areas near Oseguera’s last hideout
In Tapalpa, where “El Mencho” engaged in his final armed confrontation with soldiers, cartel members continued to man improvised checkpoints. Although officials said most blockades nationwide had ended, isolated pockets of unrest persisted in Jalisco and Michoacan.
How authorities tracked down El Mencho
Mexican Defense Secretary Ricardo Trevilla revealed that intelligence agents, with support from the US military’s Northern Command, traced one of Oseguera’s romantic partners to a meeting location in Tapalpa.
The information allowed the National Guard’s Special Immediate Reaction Force to plan a land and air assault on a ranch where Oseguera was believed to be hiding.
Violent confrontation with soldiers
According to Trevilla, the clash was “extremely violent,” with Oseguera’s armed escorts deploying assault rifles and rocket launchers similar to those used by the CJNG in previous attacks, including the 2015 downing of a military helicopter.
As troops closed in, Oseguera and his guards attempted to flee through a wooded area but were cornered. He was wounded during the firefight and later died while being airlifted to a hospital.
Casualties and arrests
During the raid and subsequent clashes across the country, authorities reported at least:
27 members of security forces killed
46 suspected cartel members killed
1 civilian killed
Two suspected cartel members were arrested at the scene, and weapons including rocket launchers were seized.
Nationwide violence spreads to 20 states
The death of Oseguera triggered unrest across 20 of Mexico’s 32 states. Cartel members blocked highways, burned vehicles and attacked government buildings. A prison in Jalisco was assaulted, resulting in the escape of at least 23 inmates.
Tourist areas were not spared. Puerto Vallarta, a major international resort city, saw roadblocks and arson attacks that forced hotels to shelter tourists. Several airlines canceled US and Canadian flights. Britain, Canada and the United States issued travel warnings, while Australia advised caution.
Government deploys 10,000 troops
Mexico deployed an additional 2,500 soldiers to Jalisco, raising the total number of troops mobilized since Sunday to 10,000. The state is scheduled to host FIFA World Cup matches this year, increasing security concerns.
In Aquino and other areas of Michoacan, residents reported smoke rising from burning vehicles along major roads.
Power struggle fears inside the CJNG
Oseguera, 59, was regarded as the last major cartel boss operating in the style of Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman and Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada.
With his son, Ruben “El Menchito,” recently convicted in the United States, analysts warn that the CJNG lacks a clear successor.
Experts say this could lead to violent internal fragmentation.
Key points analysts highlight:
Factions inside CJNG could compete for control of trafficking routes.
Rival groups from Sinaloa and Michoacan may attempt to seize CJNG territory.
Escalation of violence may continue in the short term.
Death of El Mencho’s right‑hand man
Authorities confirmed the death of Hugo H., known as “El Tuli,” who coordinated retaliatory attacks and offered money for killing soldiers. He was found dead in El Grullo while attempting to flee, carrying weapons and large amounts of cash.
Conclusion:
The killing of Oseguera marks a significant moment in Mexico’s long struggle against organized crime, yet the immediate surge of violence suggests that instability may continue. Authorities are urging caution as troops work to restore calm and anticipate potential power shifts inside the CJNG.
