What Is Happening In Mexico Right Now: Military raid kills 'El Mencho' and sparks reprisals
Questions about what is happening in mexico right now center on a federal raid in Jalisco that fatally wounded Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, the leader known as "El Mencho, " and set off a wave of retaliatory violence that has emptied streets and disrupted travel. The operation and the backlash have left scores dead, forced closures and prompted official reassurances.
What Is Happening In Mexico Right Now: the Jalisco raid that killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes
Authorities attempted to capture Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes in the western state of Jalisco on Sunday. The raid turned into a firefight that fatally wounded the 59-year-old cartel boss, known as "El Mencho, " and killed six of his accomplices. Defence minister Ricardo Trevilla said information that led to the capture and death of Mexico's most-wanted man came from a romantic partner.
Casualties and security figures named by officials
Mexico's security minister, Omar García Harfuch, said retaliatory cartel attacks since the raid have killed 25 members of the National Guard and one security guard. He said 30 cartel operatives were killed as well as one bystander. It is unclear if the violence will continue.
Widespread disruptions: roadblocks, school closures and travel warnings
In the country's west, schools were closed and international travellers left stranded as cartel foot soldiers blocked roads by torching cars and buses. Authorities said all of the more than 250 cartel roadblocks across 20 states had been cleared. Several foreign governments issued travel warnings, and President Claudia Sheinbaum urged calm as officials worked to restore order.
Scenes in Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara as residents sheltered
Authorities in Puerto Vallarta, a popular seaside tourist destination in Jalisco state, issued public advice to stay indoors when violence erupted. Videos showed cars and buildings ablaze in Puerto Vallarta on Sunday, with tourists walking on the beach and smoke rising in the distance. In nearby Guadalajara, Mexico's second-largest city and a scheduled host city for the 2026 World Cup, the streets were almost empty on Sunday as fearful residents stayed home.
More than 1, 000 sheltered in Guadalajara zoo; airport rumours and government response
More than 1, 000 people were stuck in Guadalajara's zoo overnight to shield from the chaos, Luis Soto Rendón, the zoo's director, said. "We decided to let people stay inside the zoo for their safety, " he said. "There are small children and senior citizens. " Rumours spread that large airports were shut after videos showed people running for cover in airport halls, but the government said that while some flights had been diverted, the airports in Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta and Tepic were operating normally.
Analyst warnings and official reassurances
David Mora, a Mexico analyst for International Crisis Group, said he expected to see violence spike, noting that "El Mencho was a very powerful figure who ran a very centralised organisation. There is no clear direct heir or successor. " He added that this could create a struggle for control within the group while other cartels may seize the moment to launch turf wars. The ministry of foreign affairs released a statement on Monday intended to reassure the public: "In Mexico, the rule of law prevails, and under the leadership of President Claudia Sheinbaum, work continues every day to ensure security and wellbeing in our country. "
