24-02-2026

Mexican cartel leader 'El Mencho' killed, sparking violence

Date: 24-02-2026
Sources: bbc.com: 1 | cbsnews.com: 5 | edition.cnn.com: 3 | foxnews.com: 4 | news.sky.com: 2 | nypost.com: 2 | nytimes.com: 2 | theguardian.com: 1
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Image Source:

Source: foxnews.com

Image content: The image depicts a soldier standing on a road, facing away from the camera and towards a burned-out bus. * A soldier is visible in the foreground, wearing: * A green helmet * A green tactical vest with the word "EJÉRCITO" written on it * A camouflage uniform * Holding a large gun in his right hand * In the background, there is a burned-out bus: * The bus is charred and blackened * It appears to be on fire or has recently been on fire * The bus is situated on the side of a road * The overall atmosphere of the image suggests that the scene is one of conflict or unrest, with the soldier standing guard and the burned-out bus indicating potential violence or destruction. The image shows a soldier standing on a road, holding a gun and facing a burned-out bus. The soldier is wearing a green helmet and

Summary

Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, was killed in a Mexican military operation supported by US intelligence, triggering widespread violence and retaliation from the cartel, resulting in numerous deaths and disruptions across Mexico.

Key Points

  • El Mencho's death was a result of a joint US-Mexico operation, with US intelligence providing crucial information
  • The cartel responded with violent attacks, killing 25 National Guard members and numerous others
  • The violence spread across multiple states, with roadblocks, arson, and gunfire reported
  • Experts warn that El Mencho's death may not lead to lasting stability and could create a power vacuum
  • The Mexican government has deployed thousands of soldiers to quell the violence and restore order

Articles in this Cluster

El Mencho: Mexico sends thousands of soldiers to stop violence after drug lord's death

The Mexican government has deployed thousands of soldiers to western Mexico to quell violence following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as 'El Mencho', the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). El Mencho was killed in custody on Sunday after being captured by Mexican special forces in Jalisco state. The CJNG has responded with violent attacks on towns and cities, resulting in the deaths of at least 25 National Guard members, a prison guard, and 30 cartel members. The government has praised the army's operation and prioritized guaranteeing peace and security across the country.
Entities: Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, El Mencho, Jalisco New Generation Cartel, CJNG, MexicoTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

25 Mexican National Guard troops dead in Jalisco after killing of notorious cartel leader "El Mencho" - CBS News

The Mexican government announced that 25 National Guard troops were killed in six separate attacks in Jalisco after the killing of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as 'El Mencho', the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. The operation to capture El Mencho was a result of intensified U.S.-Mexico counter-cartel cooperation, with U.S. personnel providing intelligence and operational advising. The cartel responded with violence across the country, blocking roads and setting fire to vehicles. At least 73 people died in the violence, including security forces, suspected cartel members, and others. The Mexican government urged calm, and authorities said all cartel roadblocks had been cleared. The U.S. Embassy warned its personnel to shelter in place and work remotely, and the Department of State Consular Affairs advised U.S. citizens to do the same. The killing of El Mencho is seen as a significant blow to the cartel and a diplomatic coup for the Mexican government, but it may also lead to more violence as rival groups take advantage of the power vacuum.
Entities: Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, Claudia Sheinbaum, Omar García Harfuch, Ricardo Trevilla, JaliscoTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

"El Mencho," the notorious cartel leader killed in Mexico, had a violent history - CBS News

The article reports on the death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as 'El Mencho', the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), in a military operation in western Mexico. The operation led to violent clashes, resulting in six additional deaths and several arrests. El Mencho was wanted by the US for trafficking large quantities of fentanyl and other drugs, with a $15 million reward for information leading to his arrest. The article provides a detailed history of El Mencho's rise to power, his involvement in violent crimes, and the CJNG's activities, including the attempted assassination of Mexico City Police Chief Omar García Harfuch and the kidnapping of Mexican Navy members. The article also notes that El Mencho's son, Rubén Oseguera, was sentenced to life in prison in the US for his role in the cartel's activities.
Entities: Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, Jalisco New Generation Cartel, CJNG, El Mencho, United StatesTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Homeland security officials watching for response by cartel's U.S.-based networks after leader killed - CBS News

Homeland security officials are monitoring the response of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel's (CJNG) U.S.-based networks after Mexican security forces killed the cartel's leader, Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, in a raid. The CJNG has a significant presence in the U.S., with distribution, logistics, and money-movement infrastructure across the country. While there is no indication of an imminent threat to the U.S., law enforcement agencies are watching for potential increases in violence, coercion, or debt-collection activity. The operation was the result of intensified U.S.-Mexico counter-cartel cooperation, with U.S. personnel providing intelligence and operational advice from outside Mexico. The killing of Cervantes is expected to lead to a succession struggle within the cartel, with regional commanders battling for power and control, potentially resulting in increased violence and destabilization across Mexico.
Entities: Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, Mexico, United States, Claudia SheinbaumTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

The notorious cartel leader "El Mencho" is dead. What does the future hold for the powerful CJNG? - CBS News

The article reports on the death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as 'El Mencho,' the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), in a military shootout in Mexico. The CJNG is one of the most powerful and violent drug cartels in Mexico, involved in various criminal activities including drug trafficking, extortion, and human trafficking. Following 'El Mencho's' death, the cartel reacted violently, blocking roads, torching vehicles and businesses, and killing 25 members of the National Guard. Experts believe that the power vacuum created by 'El Mencho's' death could lead to violent realignments within the organization. The article discusses the implications of 'El Mencho's' death on the CJNG and the potential for Mexico and the US to collaborate to counter the cartel's activities.
Entities: Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), Mexico, United States, El ChapoTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Violence erupts in Mexico after cartel leader "El Mencho" killed in military operation - CBS News

Violent clashes erupted in western Mexico after a military operation resulted in the death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as 'El Mencho,' the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. The operation, carried out by Mexican security forces, led to the deaths of 25 National Guard members in six separate attacks. The US provided intelligence for the operation, and the killing of 'El Mencho' was seen as a significant blow to the cartel. The violence triggered widespread security concerns, with roadblocks and burning vehicles reported in several states, including Jalisco, Tamaulipas, and Michoacan. The US State Department issued a security alert advising American citizens to shelter in place, and several airlines suspended operations in affected areas.
Entities: Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Mexico, United States, Christopher LandauTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Analysis: A cartel crackdown carries political risks for Trump | CNN PoliticsClose icon

The article analyzes the potential political risks for President Donald Trump following Mexico's crackdown on the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, led by the now-deceased Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera Cervantes. The operation, supported by US intelligence, was seen as a response to Trump's pressure on Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to take action against drug cartels. While Trump's base views the crackdown as a victory, the article warns that prolonged violence could harm the economy, disrupt the FIFA World Cup, and negatively impact Sheinbaum's and Trump's political standings. The article also highlights the complexities of US-Mexico relations and the potential consequences of Trump's 'America First' policy on the region.
Entities: Donald Trump, Claudia Sheinbaum, Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera Cervantes, Jalisco New Generation Cartel, MexicoTone: analyticalSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

How Mexico hunted ‘El Mencho’ with help from his lover’s ‘trusted man’ and US intelligence | CNNClose icon

Mexican security forces killed Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera Cervantes, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, in a high-stakes operation on Sunday. The operation was carried out with the help of US intelligence and a 'trusted man' of one of Oseguera's lovers. The cartel leader was tracked to a cabin complex on the outskirts of Tapalpa, where Mexican special forces launched a raid, killing eight cartel members and wounding two soldiers. Oseguera fled to a nearby wooded area, where he was captured and later died from his wounds during a helicopter evacuation. The operation comes at a pivotal moment for Mexico, as President Claudia Sheinbaum faces pressure from US President Donald Trump to clamp down on drug trafficking, and just months before Guadalajara hosts four group-stage matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The news of Oseguera's death sparked a wave of retaliatory violence across Mexico, with cartel forces setting up blockades and engaging in shootouts with the military, resulting in the deaths of 25 National Guard members.
Entities: Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera Cervantes, Claudia Sheinbaum, Donald Trump, Jalisco New Generation Cartel, MexicoTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

What happens next after a top Mexican cartel boss was killed? | CNN

The article discusses the killing of Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera Cervantes, Mexico's most-wanted cartel boss and head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, in a Mexican military operation aided by US intelligence. The killing is expected to impact other rival groups and security in the region. CNN's David Culver explains the potential consequences of this event.
Entities: Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera Cervantes, Mexico, Jalisco New Generation Cartel, US, CNNTone: neutralSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

American tourists caught in Puerto Vallarta cartel violence amid chaos | Fox News

American tourists in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, are caught in the midst of cartel violence following the reported killing of major cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera, known as El Mencho. Tourists describe scenes of chaos, with cars set ablaze, suspected cartel members blocking roads, and stores ransacked by looters. The Mexican authorities have issued shelter-in-place orders, and airlines have canceled flights. Despite the chaos, some tourists reported that there was no panic, with many being more annoyed than frightened. The situation has left tourists stranded, with limited access to food and transportation.
Entities: Puerto Vallarta, Nemesio Oseguera, El Mencho, Eugene Marchenko, CharlestonTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Dozens of Mexican troops, criminal suspects killed in cartel violence | Fox News

The article reports on the killing of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as 'El Mencho,' the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), during a Mexican military operation with US intelligence support. The operation led to a surge in cartel violence across Mexico, resulting in the deaths of 25 Mexican National Guard troops and over two dozen criminal suspects. The CJNG reacted to their leader's death by placing roadblocks and setting vehicles on fire, prompting the US State Department to issue shelter-in-place orders for its personnel in various Mexican cities and urging US citizens to do the same. The Mexican government urged calm, and authorities reported clearing over 250 cartel roadblocks across 20 states.
Entities: Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, El Mencho, Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Mexico, Omar García HarfuchTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

El Mencho drug lord killed in Mexico operation amid US pressure | Fox News

The article discusses the killing of Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera Cervantes, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, in a Mexican military operation with US intelligence support. The operation is seen as a strategic response to mounting US pressure on Mexico to take action against cartels, particularly in light of the fentanyl trafficking issue. The killing is viewed as a tactical win, but experts caution that it may not lead to lasting stability as it doesn't address the underlying issues of corruption, territorial control, and political protection that allow cartels to thrive. The article also highlights the increased coordination between the US and Mexico governments on security issues and the potential for further US pressure on Mexico to take action against cartels.
Entities: Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera Cervantes, Mexico, United States, Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Sen. Ted CruzTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

'El Mencho' killed after authorities track romantic partner to cabin | Fox News

Mexican authorities have killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as 'El Mencho,' the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, in a military operation supported by US intelligence. The operation began on February 20, when authorities tracked El Mencho's romantic partner to a secret rendezvous location. El Mencho was killed in a shootout with military personnel on February 22, along with several of his security detail. The operation resulted in the deaths of eight cartel members and two military personnel were wounded. The Mexican government has sent 2,500 reinforcements to the state to prevent further violence in the cartel's retaliation. El Mencho was a major drug lord with a $15 million US bounty on his head and was known for his involvement in fentanyl trafficking.
Entities: Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, El Mencho, Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Mexico, USTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Mexican drug lord 'El Mencho' was killed after visit from 'romantic partner', say officials | World News | Sky News

Mexican drug lord 'El Mencho', the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was killed in a raid by security forces after one of his lovers visited him at his hideout in Jalisco, Mexico. The operation, which was supported by US intelligence, resulted in the deaths of eight cartel members and the seizure of grenades, ammo, and armored vehicles. The aftermath of El Mencho's death saw widespread violence across Mexico, with at least 73 people killed, including security forces, suspected cartel members, and others. Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum praised the armed forces and declared the country 'at peace' and 'calm', while the US White House applauded Mexico's army for taking down one of the most wanted criminals in both countries.
Entities: El Mencho, Jalisco, Mexico, General Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, Nemesio Ruben Oseguera CervantesTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Violence triggered by killing of notorious Mexican drug lord could hit the World Cup | World News | Sky News

The Mexican government's killing of El Mencho, the head of the Jalisco New Generation drug cartel, has triggered a violent backlash across the country. The cartel is known for its brutality and is a major producer of illegal drugs, including fentanyl. While the violence has calmed down temporarily, experts warn that it may not subside and could escalate into a more organized war against the government and its security forces. The timing is particularly concerning as Mexico is set to host the World Cup, and the government needs to contain the fallout quickly to avoid deterring visitors. The killing of El Mencho is seen as a significant victory for the US administration, which has been pressuring Mexico to take action against the cartels.
Entities: El Mencho, Jalisco New Generation drug cartel, Mexico, Stuart Ramsay, Donald TrumpTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Cartel warfare threatens to spill into California as narco-terrorists unleash hell on border city

Violence erupted in Tijuana, Mexico, after the killing of Jalisco cartel boss Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera Cervantes in a special forces raid. Suspected narco-terrorists torched vehicles at the border wall, set up roadblocks, and targeted local businesses. The violence has raised concerns that it may spill into California, with Tijuana being a major border crossing between California and Mexico. The US Customs and Border Protection confirmed that all Southwest entrances are still 'open and fully operational.' Local cops arrested 25 suspected gang members since Sunday.
Entities: Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera Cervantes, Tijuana, California, Jalisco cartel, MexicoTone: urgentSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

'El Mencho' killing marks new war against cartels, but Mexico needs to keep 'applying pressure': sources

The killing of Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), in a Mexican military operation has sparked widespread violence across Mexico. The CJNG has retaliated against the government, killing over 50 people, blocking roads, and causing flight cancellations. The operation was seen as a new offensive against cartels by the Mexican state, with US intelligence and support playing a role. The CJNG is known for its brutality, and El Mencho's death is expected to have significant implications for the cartel and the country. Mexico's president, Claudia Sheinbaum, has clarified that while there was no US involvement on the ground, security and intelligence sharing has increased. The killing of El Mencho marks a significant escalation in the war against cartels, with Omar Garcia Harfuch, Mexico's Secretary of Security, playing a key role in the operation.
Entities: Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera, Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, Omar Garcia HarfuchTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

After Chaos Rips Across Mexico, the Remnants of Cartel Violence Haunt Residents - The New York Times

The article reports on the aftermath of a wave of violence in Guadalajara, Mexico, following the killing of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, by Mexican forces. The violence, which included blockades, arson attacks, and gunfire, paralyzed the city and left residents in a state of fear and uncertainty. While the violence has subsided, the city's residents remain cautious, and the impact of the cartel's actions is still being felt. The article highlights the deep-seated issues of violence and crime in Mexico, particularly in Jalisco state, where the cartel has a strong presence. Residents and experts alike question whether the killing of Oseguera will have a lasting impact on the cartel's operations or the broader issue of organized crime in Mexico.
Entities: Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, Guadalajara, Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Mexico, JaliscoTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

After Six Decades of the War on Drugs, What Works? - The New York Times

The article discusses the ongoing war on drugs, specifically focusing on the recent killing of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Despite this significant blow, analysts warn that the cartel's demise is unlikely, and a more comprehensive approach is needed to dismantle it. The article highlights the need for a holistic strategy that includes targeting midlevel commanders, unraveling the cartel's financial networks, and improving investigative capabilities. It also draws parallels with Colombia's experience in the 1990s, where a combination of force and smart investigative work led to initial success, but ultimately resulted in a power vacuum that allowed other groups to take over. The article concludes that the Mexican government needs to work across municipalities and states to exert its authority and dislodge the cartel.
Entities: Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Mexico, United States, Carlos Pérez RicartTone: analyticalSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Mexican drug cartel boss ‘El Mencho’ tracked through romantic partner | Mexico | The Guardian

The Mexican military killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, alias 'El Mencho', the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), in a raid supported by US intelligence. The operation sparked a wave of violence across western Mexico, with cartel gunmen blocking roads, torching vehicles, and clashing with security forces. The violence resulted in the deaths of 25 national guard members, 34 gunmen, and one bystander, as well as the arrest of 70 people. The CJNG is known for its ultraviolence and has been designated a 'foreign terrorist organisation' by the US.
Entities: Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, El Mencho, Jalisco New Generation Cartel, CJNG, MexicoTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform