Mexico in Crisis: "El Mencho" Killed, Cartel Violence Erupts Nationwide
Mexico was plunged into one of its most dramatic security crises in years this week after the Mexican military killed Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes, the feared leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), on February 22, 2026. His death triggered a wave of coordinated cartel violence across the country that lasted for days.
Who Was "El Mencho" and How Was He Killed
As the leader of one of Mexico's most rapidly expanding criminal networks, the 59-year-old was notorious for trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine into the United States, while orchestrating brazen attacks against government officials.
After years of pursuit, Mexican forces on February 20 received a concrete tip about the feared cartel leader's whereabouts through a "trusted man" connected to one of Oseguera's lovers. The following day, the lover left Oseguera's cabin complex on the outskirts of Tapalpa, but the drug lord remained at the hideout with his security detail. Mexico's Air Force and special forces then launched a raid within 24 hours. El Mencho was killed in the resulting shootout.
The Cartel's Violent Retaliation Across Mexico
The response from CJNG was swift and coordinated. In the immediate aftermath, numerous road blockades were established by cartel members using hijacked cargo trucks, buses, and private vehicles set on fire to obstruct traffic. Security forces identified approximately 250 roadblocks nationwide, with incidents reported in Jalisco and 19 other states.
At least 74 people were killed, including 25 National Guard officers, in the operation and the subsequent violence. Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco state and stronghold of the CJNG, was almost completely shut down as fearful residents stayed home.
Impact on Travelers: Flights, Airports, and Shelter-in-Place Orders
The chaos caused serious disruption for tourists and travelers. Puerto Vallarta International Airport reported that all international operations and the majority of domestic flights were cancelled following the outbreak of violence, with airlines citing security concerns and uncertainty regarding access routes.
The U.S. Embassy in Mexico City sent out a security alert telling U.S. citizens in multiple states to shelter in place. The foreign ministries of Australia, New Zealand, France, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Indonesia issued similar alerts.
Mexico Deploys 10,000 Troops as Situation Stabilizes
Some 10,000 soldiers were deployed across 20 of Mexico's 32 states to maintain order, with at least 2,000 sent to Guadalajara alone. President Claudia Sheinbaum stated the operation was carried out in coordination with U.S. intelligence.
As of February 24 ET, public transportation and businesses have largely returned to normal operations. U.S. citizens are no longer urged to shelter in place, and flight schedules have returned to normal in Guadalajara, with many airlines running extra flights to Puerto Vallarta.
What Comes Next: Succession Battle and the 2026 World Cup
Analysts warn the hardest chapter may be ahead. The timing is particularly sensitive given the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Guadalajara is scheduled to host four matches in June, including one featuring Mexico's national team, with authorities expecting around 3 million visitors.
Security experts warn that if no successor was appointed, the worst-case scenario could see record levels of homicide in Mexico in the months to come, as regional cartel bosses fight a civil war for control of the CJNG's territory and trafficking networks.
