Mexico kills cartel leader ‘El Mencho,’ violence erupts

The Mexican Army said it killed the country’s most wanted cartel boss, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” during a military operation in Tapalpa, a town in the western state of Jalisco.

Oseguera, 60, led the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel, which grew into one of Mexico’s dominant trafficking groups over the past decade. The United States had previously offered a $10 million reward for information leading to his capture, and later raised it to $15 million.

Authorities said the cartel leader was wounded in the raid and died while being transported to Mexico City for medical care. At least nine other cartel members were killed, and three security officers were injured.

Violence erupted within hours. Authorities reported 252 blockades across 20 of Mexico’s 32 states. Several vehicles were set ablaze. Security forces have cleared most roads.

Political and security impact
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum urged citizens to stay calm and said federal forces have been deployed nationwide. 

US officials confirmed they shared intelligence but did not take part in the operation.

Analysts warned that a leadership vacuum inside the cartel could trigger further clashes as rival factions fight for control.

Advisory for US citizens
The State Department urged Americans in affected areas to shelter in place and remain indoors, either at home or in hotels. Several US airlines canceled or suspended flights to Puerto Vallarta, leaving travelers stranded.

Americans account for more than 14 million of Mexico’s 48 million annual international visitors.