Mexican security forces have killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, the drug cartel leader known as 'El Mencho', prompting a wave of violence across several states. The defence ministry confirmed the death of one of the world's most wanted traffickers, who led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
The operation took place on Sunday in the western state of Jalisco, where El Mencho and at least six alleged accomplices were killed. Four cartel members died at the scene, while three others, including El Mencho, died while being flown to Mexico City. Two suspects were arrested with weapons including rocket launchers.
Violence erupted across at least eight states, with burning vehicles and gunmen blocking highways. In Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco, armed men torched cars and a petrol station. The unrest forced US and Canadian airlines to cancel dozens of flights, and schools were cancelled on Monday in several states.
Three soldiers were injured during the operation. A Jalisco official reported that a National Guard member died in Tapalpa, six others in Zapopan, a jail guard in Puerto Vallarta during a riot, and a state prosecutor's agent in Guadalajara. The US provided intelligence that contributed to the operation's success.
El Mencho, a former police officer, co-founded the CJNG about 16 years ago, which became Mexico's most powerful criminal group. The US had offered a $15m reward for his capture, accusing him of smuggling cocaine, fentanyl and methamphetamine. Senior US officials praised the killing, which follows pressure from President Donald Trump over drug and migrant flows.
