MEXICO CITY — In a significant blow to organized crime in Mexico, the military announced the killing of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the notorious leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). This operation took place on Sunday in the western state of Jalisco, according to a federal official who spoke on the condition of anonymity.
El Mencho’s death followed intense hostilities, characterized by several hours of roadblocks and burning vehicles in Jalisco and surrounding areas, tactics often employed by cartels to hinder military movements. The operation was a response to the ongoing violence and security challenges posed by the CJNG, which has become one of the most powerful criminal organizations in Mexico.
The U.S. State Department had previously put a bounty of up to $15 million on El Mencho’s head, reflecting the international community’s concern over the cartel’s activities. In a related move, the Trump administration designated the CJNG as a foreign terrorist organization in February, highlighting the seriousness of threats posed by the group.
The death of such a high-profile cartel figure could potentially lead to a power vacuum within the CJNG, which may instigate further turmoil in the region. However, it also represents a hopeful step forward for authorities aiming to restore order and safety in areas plagued by cartel violence. Efforts to dismantle organized crime continue to be a priority for the Mexican government, and this operation could mark a turning point in the battle against drug trafficking and related violence in Mexico.