Who Was Targeted
Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the founder of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and described as the world’s most wanted drug lord, was killed on Sunday in a U.S.-backed military raid in Jalisco. The DEA had a $15 million bounty on him. The operation, which involved U.S. intelligence support, took place in the Sierra de Tapalpa, Jalisco, and resulted in one man being killed.
The intended capture became lethal when “El Mencho” was wounded in a firefight and subsequently died during an airlift to Mexico City.
The State’s Role
The raid was backed by the United States and involved U.S. intelligence support. The article said the operation took place in the Sierra de Tapalpa, Jalisco. It also said the DEA had placed a $15 million bounty on him.
Retaliation and Disruption
Within hours of his death, half of Mexico was paralyzed by cartel retaliation. Approximately 250 roadblocks were reported across 20 states. In Guadalajara, 20 banks were torched. In Puerto Vallarta, a major tourist hub, smoke was observed over the tourist district, and all ground transport ceased, causing tourists to miss flights rather than risk traveling to the airport.
Jalisco’s governor declared a “code red.” Ten states canceled school for Monday. Aeroméxico suspended flights across western Mexico. The United States issued shelter alerts for Puerto Vallarta, Cancún, Tulum, Tijuana, and parts of six other states, with at least seven more countries following suit.
Scale of the Cartel
The CJNG operates in all 32 Mexican states and at least 40 countries. The article said “El Mencho’s” death is considered the biggest blow to Mexican drug trafficking in a generation.
The report was written by Juan Martinez and published on February 23, 2026.