Mexico Takes Bold Risk in Capturing Cartel Leader El Mencho
The Mexican government has taken a significant step by capturing Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho.” He is the head of the notorious Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). This operation has raised questions about the timing and potential repercussions of this bold move.
Operation Details and Execution
The military launched a meticulously planned operation based on intelligence that tracked the movements of El Mencho’s romantic partner. This led to a series of confrontations on Sunday, resulting in the cartel leader being mortally wounded. He succumbed to his injuries while being transported by helicopter for medical assistance.
According to General Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, the Secretary of National Defense, the confrontation also cost the lives of approximately 30 cartel members and 25 military personnel. This action against the CJNG occurred as Mexico approaches the co-hosting of the World Cup just a few months away.
Government Motivations Behind the Strike
Experts suggest multiple factors influenced the decision to target El Mencho at this time. The Sheinbaum administration faces ongoing pressure from the United States, which provided intelligence for the operation. The capture of El Mencho symbolizes a pivotal moment in the fight against the CJNG, a group heavily involved in drug trafficking, particularly the export of fentanyl to the U.S.
- El Mencho was the last major drug boss at large.
- His cartel, CJNG, is involved in various criminal enterprises, including extortion.
- The U.S. and Canada have designated the CJNG as a terrorist organization.
Repercussions of El Mencho’s Death
Following the operation, Mexico experienced a brief period of chaos, marked by approximately 250 road blockades across 20 states, particularly in the state of Jalisco. Noteworthy tourist destinations, including Puerto Vallarta, were heavily affected. Some international airlines, such as Air Canada and WestJet, temporarily canceled flights to the region amidst these disturbances.
In response, the Mexican government deployed about 9,500 troops to Jalisco to stabilize the situation and remove road blockades. Observations in Puerto Vallarta on Monday indicated a quiet atmosphere, with many businesses shuttered.
Challenges Ahead for the Mexican Government
The operation against El Mencho presents a “high-risk bet” for the Sheinbaum administration. While the CJNG may face internal power struggles following their leader’s death, it could also invite rival organizations to exploit any perceived weaknesses.
The complexities of organized crime continue to challenge the Mexican government. It has dealt with violence in Sinaloa resulting from fractures within the Sinaloa cartel. Additionally, the government aims to pacify Michoacán, known as La Tierra Caliente, the home state of El Mencho and a major avocado-producing region in Mexico.
Ultimately, while the operation against El Mencho may strengthen government control in the short term, the long-term impact on drug cartel dynamics remains uncertain.
