Mexican influencer Maria Julissa, a 25-year-old model with 3.5 million social media followers, has firmly denied allegations that she betrayed notorious drug lord El Mencho, whose capture and subsequent death have plunged Mexico into widespread violence. The accusations emerged after a threatening banner was hung from a bridge in Zapopan, Jalisco, directly blaming Julissa for the cartel leader's demise.
Banner Accuses Influencer of Betrayal
A menacing banner displayed in Jalisco used crude language to call Julissa a 'b***h' and claimed she 'sent the marine' after the cartel boss. The message, which appeared to be signed with the initials of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), accused her of 'biting the hand that fed [her],' referencing rumors of a denied relationship with El Mencho.
Violence Erupts Across Mexico
Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, better known as El Mencho, was captured by Mexican special forces on Sunday and died shortly afterward while in custody. His death triggered immediate chaos across at least 20 Mexican states, with cartel members burning vehicles, vandalizing buildings, and forcing school closures. The violence has claimed at least 62 lives, including 25 members of the Mexican National Guard.
El Mencho's CJNG organization, infamous for brutal tactics including beheadings and burning victims alive, appears to be retaliating for his death. The Department of State had offered a $15 million reward for information leading to his capture, highlighting his status as one of Mexico's most wanted criminals and a significant target for US authorities.
Julissa's Public Denial
In a statement posted on social media, Julissa categorically denied any connection to El Mencho or the circumstances surrounding his capture. Writing in Spanish, she declared, 'I have nothing to do with this situation,' and described the circulating information as 'false and unfounded.'
The influencer emphasized the importance of addressing rumors 'directly and transparently,' though her Instagram post did not specify exactly which allegations she was refuting. She warned that such rumors 'could cause a lot of harm' and urged her followers to 'not fall for fake news,' calling the accusations 'totally false.'
Authorities Investigate Threats
Local authorities have confirmed awareness of the threatening banner and the dangers posed to Julissa and her family. According to reports from Chapin TV, the situation is being monitored closely as cartel violence continues to escalate.
Mexico's defense secretary, Ricardo Trevilla, revealed that a visit from a 'romantic partner' led to El Mencho's capture and death, though he did not identify the woman involved. After her visit, an associate reportedly provided authorities with crucial information about the drug lord's location. American intelligence also played a role in the operation, supplying 'very important additional information' about where El Mencho could be found.
Background and Fallout
Julissa, known in Mexico as 'Baseball Barbie' for her coverage of the country's baseball scene, has faced scrutiny over her past. A 2022 Facebook post suggested she once maintained an active OnlyFans page, though it is no longer in use. Meanwhile, El Mencho was married to Rosalinda González Valencia, 63, known as 'La Jefa' or the boss, though Trevilla did not confirm she was the visitor referenced in the capture operation.
The violence following El Mencho's death has disrupted daily life across Mexico, with some American tourists temporarily unable to return home due to roadblocks and chaos. In Puerto Vallarta, visitors reported being terrified by the unrest, while US citizens in parts of Jalisco and Baja California were advised to shelter in place until conditions improved.
As the situation develops, the Daily Mail has reached out to Maria Julissa for further comment, while Mexico grapples with the ongoing cartel violence triggered by one of its most significant law enforcement operations in recent years.
