El Mencho Killed: CJNG Leader Dead in Mexico Military Operation

The leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” was killed in a military operation Sunday in the western state of Jalisco, according to a federal official. The official requested anonymity due to not being authorized to speak publicly.

Escalation and Response

The operation followed several hours of roadblocks with burning vehicles in Jalisco and other states – tactics commonly employed by cartels to impede military actions. Videos shared on social media depicted smoke rising over Puerto Vallarta, a major city in Jalisco, and individuals rushing through the airport in the state capital, prompting panic.

Did You Know? The U.S. State Department had offered a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to the arrest of El Mencho.

Air Canada suspended flights to Puerto Vallarta on Sunday afternoon, advising customers to avoid the airport due to the “ongoing security situation.”

The Cartel’s Reach and Tactics

The CJNG, established in 2009, has rapidly become one of Mexico’s most powerful criminal organizations. It has been described by the DEA as being as powerful as the Sinaloa cartel, with a presence in all 50 U.S. States, distributing tons of drugs. The cartel is a major supplier of cocaine to the U.S. Market and generates billions of dollars from fentanyl and methamphetamine production.

The cartel is known for its aggressive attacks on the military and its pioneering use of explosives launched from drones and landmines. In 2020, the CJNG carried out an assassination attempt in Mexico City, targeting the then-head of the capital’s police force, who now leads federal security.

Expert Insight: The killing of a major cartel leader like El Mencho often leads to a period of instability as factions vie for control, potentially increasing violence in the short term. While it may disrupt operations, it doesn’t guarantee the dismantling of the organization, which has demonstrated resilience in the past.

Legal Proceedings

Since 2017, Oseguera Cervantes has faced multiple indictments in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. The most recent indictment, filed on April 5, 2022, charged him with conspiracy and distribution of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl intended for illegal importation into the United States, as well as firearms offenses related to drug trafficking. He was also charged under the Drug Kingpin Enforcement Act for leading a continuing criminal enterprise.

What Might Happen Next

The removal of El Mencho could lead to internal power struggles within the CJNG, potentially resulting in increased violence as different factions attempt to assert dominance. It is also possible that the cartel could attempt retaliatory attacks against the Mexican government or security forces. Analysts expect that the cartel will likely attempt to reorganize and continue its operations, potentially under new leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Jalisco New Generation Cartel?

The Jalisco New Generation Cartel, known as CJNG, began operating in 2009 and is one of the most powerful and fastest-growing criminal organizations in Mexico.

Was a reward offered for information on El Mencho?

Yes, the U.S. State Department offered a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to the arrest of El Mencho.

What types of drugs does the CJNG traffic?

The CJNG distributes tons of drugs, including cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamines, and is a major supplier to the U.S. Market.

How will this event impact the ongoing struggle against drug cartels in Mexico?