Cartel Violence Erupts Across Mexico After Death of CJNG Leader

Members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) have launched coordinated attacks across 20 Mexican states following the death of their leader, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho.”

The cartel chief, considered one of Mexico’s most wanted figures, was captured by Mexican special forces in the town of Tapalpa in Jalisco state. He was seriously wounded during a gun battle between his bodyguards and military commandos and died on Sunday while being transported to Mexico City.

Authorities said at least six of his security personnel were killed in the operation, while three soldiers were injured.

In retaliation, cartel members torched businesses, hijacked and burned vehicles, and set up flaming roadblocks in numerous towns and cities. Roads were obstructed with spikes and burning buses, while banks, pharmacies and other establishments were set ablaze.

Dramatic footage showed thick plumes of smoke rising over several urban centres, including the popular Pacific coast resort of Puerto Vallarta. At the city’s airport, around 300 travellers were stranded after flights were cancelled. Visitors were later escorted to safety under heavy police protection.

In Guadalajara, one of the host cities for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, panic erupted at the airport as reports of gunfire spread. Authorities later dismissed claims that shots had been fired inside the terminal, though a burned-out vehicle was reportedly seen on a nearby highway.

Local governments urged residents to remain indoors as streets emptied in several affected areas. According to reports, more than 250 road blockades were recorded nationwide, though officials say most have since been cleared.

The unrest echoes the violence that followed the 2019 arrest of Ovidio Guzmán López, son of jailed drug lord Joaquín Guzmán. At that time, authorities briefly released Guzmán López to quell intense fighting. He was re-arrested in 2023 and later extradited to the United States.

Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, called on citizens to remain calm and praised security forces for the operation that led to El Mencho’s capture. Officials reported 25 arrests linked to the retaliatory violence, including suspects accused of participating in attacks and looting.

While many blockades have been dismantled, security forces remain on high alert, particularly in Jalisco, the CJNG’s stronghold, as tensions continue across parts of the country.