GUADALAJARA, Mexico — Several Mexican states canceled classes, and local and foreign governments urged citizens to stay indoors after widespread violence erupted following the army’s killing of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) leader.
Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” was killed during a shootout at his home in Jalisco while the Mexican military attempted to capture him. He was the head of one of the fastest-growing criminal networks in the country, notorious for trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine to the United States and for brazen attacks against government officials.
According to the Mexican Defense Department, Oseguera Cervantes was wounded in the Tapalpa operation and died while being flown to Mexico City. Four others were killed during the raid, while three, including Oseguera, were wounded and later died.
Following his death, cartel members launched violent attacks nationwide, including more than 250 roadblocks across 20 states and burning of vehicles. Authorities in Jalisco, Michoacan, and Guanajuato reported at least 14 additional deaths, including seven National Guard troops.
President Claudia Sheinbaum called for calm and said most roadblocks had been cleared by late Sunday. She was expected to address the situation during her daily press briefing.
The White House confirmed that the U.S. provided intelligence support for the operation and praised the Mexican military. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt described El Mencho as a top target for both governments due to his role in trafficking fentanyl into the U.S.
The U.S. State Department had offered up to $15 million for information leading to his capture. In February 2025, the Trump administration designated the CJNG as a foreign terrorist organization.
The U.S. Embassy in Mexico advised personnel in eight cities and the state of Michoacan to shelter in place and work remotely, urging American citizens to do the same.
By Monday morning, Guadalajara began to see movement on the streets again, after the city was almost completely shut down on Sunday. Residents remained on edge, concerned about possible retaliation from the cartel and the risk of further violence following the death of one of the most wanted criminals in Mexico and the U.S.
Edgardo Hernal started college at UP Diliman and received his BA in Economics from San Sebastian College, Manila, and Masters in Information Systems Management from Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University in Oak Brook, IL. He has 25 years of copy editing and management experience at Thomson West, a subsidiary of Thomson Reuters.
- EDGARDO HERNAL
- EDGARDO HERNAL
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