A video circulating on social media and amplified by Mexican news outlets shows the moments immediately following the confrontation in the Sierra Sur of Jalisco, which resulted in the death of "El Mencho."
A few hours later, the Mexican Government confirmed that the deceased was Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
The footage, apparently recorded by federal forces, quickly went viral. It captures the military presence in the forested area and the troops securing the perimeter after the gunfight.
Shortly thereafter, the security cabinet confirmed that the cartel leader was injured during the clash and died while being airlifted under military custody.
The Trail to Tapalpa
During a morning press conference led by President Claudia Sheinbaum, General Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, Secretary of National Defense, elaborated on the operation. According to him, military intelligence pinpointed the drug lord on February 20 by tracking a man close to one of the criminal leader's romantic partners. This led them to a property in Tapalpa, Jalisco.
On February 21, special forces from the Army and National Guard confirmed that “El Mencho” was present there, heavily guarded. A strategic plan for intervention was crafted on the same day.
Surrounding and Armed Response
The operation kicked off on the night of February 22 with a massive deployment: elite ground units, six support helicopters, and Texan-type tactical aircraft providing aerial coverage. As they found themselves encircled, CJNG members launched a "very violent" attack, according to official accounts, attempting to help their leader escape into the wooded area.
The initial exchange left eight suspected criminals dead. The pursuit continued through the underbrush, with Oseguera and his personal guard resisting using high-powered weapons, including rocket launchers. One projectile hit a federal helicopter, forcing an emergency landing in Sayula, about 35 kilometers from the main confrontation site, injuring three soldiers.
Final Moments and Evacuation
Following the exchange of gunfire, federal forces found Oseguera Cervantes injured among the bushes, accompanied by two bodyguards. Military medical personnel tried to stabilize them for air evacuation to a hospital. However, the CJNG leader passed away during the transport.
"Due to the risk of violent attacks in Guadalajara, the aircraft was diverted to Morelia, Michoacán," explained General Trevilla. From there, his remains were flown to Mexico City by Air Force plane for legal proceedings.
Strike Against Financial Operator
Meanwhile, in El Grullo, federal forces located Hugo H., alias “El Tule,” identified as the cartel's financial operator and allegedly responsible for coordinating blockades and attacks on government facilities. Authorities claim he offered rewards of 20,000 pesos for each soldier killed. After attempting to flee and firing on the troops, he was killed. Authorities found 7.2 million Mexican pesos and 965,000 dollars in cash in his possession.
Subsequent Violence and Human Toll
The operation triggered a wave of violence across several states, with reports of gas stations set on fire, roadblocks, and the suspension of classes and public events. At least 28 people died during the day, including 25 National Guard members, a prison guard, a prosecutor’s office employee, and a woman. The Security Cabinet reported over 40 suspected criminals killed in subsequent confrontations. Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch confirmed 27 attacks on authorities and the arrest of 70 individuals.
U.S. Support and Official Reaction
The United States Government commended Mexico for the operation's outcome and confirmed it provided intelligence "within the framework of bilateral coordination and cooperation," according to official sources cited by EFE. President Sheinbaum thanked the federal forces' deployment and stated on X: "The Security Cabinet’s social media informs continuously. In most of the national territory, activities are proceeding normally. We work every day for Mexico's peace, security, justice, and well-being."
Power Vacuum
Regarded as Mexico’s most wanted drug lord, “El Mencho” led a transnational cartel that expanded its activities beyond drug trafficking to include extortion, migrant smuggling, and fuel theft. As described by El País, it was an organization "capable of murdering judges, politicians, and military personnel, paralyzing entire cities, hiring foreign mercenaries, and shooting down Army helicopters with cannons."
His death signifies the downfall of one of the last major kingpins with a traditional structure, yet it opens an uncertain scenario. Analysts warn that the power vacuum could trigger internal disputes or an offensive from rival groups, while the government maintains a reinforced presence in Jalisco and Michoacán amid potential reprisals.
Key Questions on El Mencho's Death and Its Aftermath
Who was El Mencho?
El Mencho, whose real name was Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, was the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), a powerful and violent Mexican drug cartel.
What impact did El Mencho's death have?
His death has created a power vacuum that could lead to internal disputes within the cartel or aggression from rival groups, posing potential instability in the region.
How did the U.S. contribute to the operation?
The United States provided intelligence support within the framework of bilateral coordination and cooperation, aiding the Mexican Government in the operation.