Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, also known as El Mencho, was killed during a Mexican military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco. Following his death, violence was reported across parts of Jalisco, with highway blockades and arson incidents in multiple cities.
Mexican military forces conducted the operation in Tapalpa after months-long intelligence gathering and planning. Heavy weapons and armored vehicles were deployed. Several suspects were arrested, and weapons including rocket launchers were seized. Authorities stated that security personnel were injured during the operation.
Oseguera Cervantes led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) over the past decade. He was previously a police officer. Under his leadership, the cartel became one of Mexico’s most powerful drug trafficking organizations. The cartel has faced allegations in the United States of large-scale drug smuggling, particularly synthetic opioid fentanyl. Fentanyl overdoses have resulted in millions of deaths in recent years.
Officials described the operation as important in the context of ongoing pressure from the United States against Mexican drug cartels during the Trump Administration. Security experts said the killing of Oseguera Cervantes could trigger shifts in power among Mexican cartels and lead to further violence.
After his death, cartel members set vehicles on fire, blocked highways and carried out attacks in several cities. Guadalajara and other major urban centers reported disruptions, with residents remaining indoors and schools closed in multiple states.
In Tapalpa, Zapopan, Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, cartel members attacked security forces. Several soldiers were injured, and civilians were placed at risk. Local authorities advised residents to remain indoors and exercise caution.
The Jalisco New Generation Cartel’s activities have included international drug trafficking, local violence and confrontations with security forces. Following Oseguera Cervantes’ death, the possibility of an internal power struggle within the cartel has increased.
