Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, better known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was killed on February 22, 2026.
According to multiple reports major international media outlets like BBC, CNN, The New York Times, Reuters, and others:
– He was targeted in a military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, Mexico (a CJNG stronghold area).
– During the raid/clash with Mexican Army/special forces, he was seriously wounded.
– He was taken into custody but died from his injuries while being airlifted (helicopter transfer) to Mexico City for medical treatment.
– Several other cartel members (reports vary from 4–7) were killed in the operation, with some additional deaths during transfer.
– The U.S. reportedly provided intelligence/support for the operation, and officials (including from the Trump administration) described it as a major development.
His death has triggered widespread retaliatory violence by CJNG elements across multiple Mexican states, including torched vehicles, road blockades, fires, and clashes—leading to travel warnings (e.g., U.S. citizens advised to shelter in place in affected areas), especially in Jalisco and surrounding regions.
