On February 22, 2026, Mexico was swept by a major wave of violence after an operation killed CJNG leader Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho. According to local media, the unrest affected at least 20 of the country’s 32 states, and at least 30 people were killed in clashes, arson attacks and assaults, including security personnel, suspected cartel members and bystanders.
The center of the crisis was Jalisco, home to Guadalajara and the resort city of Puerto Vallarta. After news of the cartel leader’s death spread, social media and local outlets were flooded with videos showing burning vehicles, blocked roads, attacks on police, and arson targeting shops and banks. In eight states, in-person school classes were canceled on February 23, while panic spread in airports and urban areas.
The operation took place in Tapalpa and involved army special forces, the air force and a National Guard rapid-response unit. Authorities had initially planned to capture El Mencho alive, but a firefight broke out. Four cartel members were killed at the scene, and three more later died of their wounds, including the CJNG chief.
Washington had previously described Oseguera Cervantes as “one of the bloodiest and most ruthless drug lords.” According to the DEA, his cartel operates in around 40 countries and is involved not only in drug trafficking but also extortion, robbery and migrant smuggling. In December 2024, the United States raised the reward for information leading to his capture to $15 million.
The Russian and US embassies urged their citizens to take heightened precautions, and Russian nationals were advised to postpone travel to Jalisco. US officials also confirmed they had provided intelligence support to Mexico.
El Mencho’s killing is being described as the biggest blow to the drug trade in recent years and an important success for Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. At the same time, analysts warn that CJNG’s decapitation could trigger a new struggle over territory and a prolonged escalation of violence, especially in Jalisco.