Mexican Army Reports Killing Cartel Leader 'El Mencho' in Raid, Triggering Road Blockades and Unrest
Mexico's army announced that Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho" and leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, was killed during a military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco state.
The 59-year-old, who had a $15 million U.S. bounty on his head, was wounded in a clash with soldiers and died while being transferred to Mexico City, authorities said. Six suspected cartel members were killed, three soldiers were wounded, and two people were detained during the operation. Officials reported the seizure of anti-aircraft and anti-armor weapons.
The White House confirmed that the United States provided intelligence support for the raid.
In response, suspected cartel members blocked more than 20 roads, set vehicles on fire, and caused unrest in neighboring states, leading to the closure of schools and courts. President Claudia Sheinbaum called on the public to remain calm.
Guatemala strengthened security along its border with Mexico. The United States and Canada issued travel warnings, and dozens of flights were canceled.
The operation occurred amid U.S. pressure under President Donald Trump to reduce fentanyl trafficking into the United States. Oseguera Cervantes was responsible for large-scale fentanyl smuggling.
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