'El Mencho's' Demise Unleashes Wave of Cartel Violence, Paralyzing Mexico

The killing of Mexico's most-wanted drug lord triggers violent reprisals, leading to a significant military response and disruption of daily life

Story: Mexico Grapples with Surge in Violence Following Death of Drug Lord 'El Mencho'

Published: February 24, 2026 at 09:21 AM

Story Summary

The death of notorious drug lord, 'El Mencho', has sparked severe retaliation from cartel members, resulting in at least 73 deaths, including 25 National Guard troops, and widespread disruption. In response, the Mexican government has deployed an additional 2,500 soldiers to quell the violence, but concerns remain over the spillover of violence into other states and the ongoing threat posed by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.

Full Story

Mexico Battles Cartel Violence Following 'El Mencho' Death

Mexico is reeling from a shocking wave of violence following the death of the country's most-wanted drug lord, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as 'El Mencho'. The military operation leading to his death and the subsequent violent reprisals have reportedly resulted in at least 73 deaths, with 25 National Guard troops among the casualties. The Mexican government has responded by deploying an additional 2,500 soldiers to the already 7,000 stationed in the state of Jalisco, totaling 10,000 troops in an attempt to quell the violence.

Background and Context

El Mencho, the former police officer who rose to prominence as the co-founder and leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was killed on Sunday in the western state of Jalisco. His death has sparked violent reactions, with cartel members blocking roads in 20 states, torching vehicles and businesses, and engaging in violent clashes with law enforcement.

Events Unfolding

In the wake of El Mencho's death, officials reported that areas of western Mexico were all but shut down. Schools in several states were closed, flights were suspended, and foreign governments advised their citizens to stay indoors. Cartel members reportedly went on violent rampages, leading to at least 25 security forces' deaths. Among the deceased were also a prison guard, a state prosecutor, and a woman.

The operation to capture El Mencho reportedly began on February 20, with the authorities tracking his romantic partner to a secret rendezvous location. The operation resulted in the killing of around 30 alleged criminals in Jalisco, four in Michoacán, and the capture of several armored vehicles and heavy weapons from the cartel.

Reactions and Implications

In the aftermath of the operation, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that calm was being restored and that improvised cartel roadblocks were being removed. However, the fallout from El Mencho's death continues to raise concerns. The U.S Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau hailed the operation as a major victory for the region and the world, while others, such as Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, emphasized the need for increased coordination between U.S.-Mexican forces in combating cartels.

Meanwhile, the violence has disrupted daily life with soccer matches postponed and businesses shut down. The spillover of violence into other states presents a significant challenge to restoring order.

Current Status

As of now, the Mexican government continues its efforts to restore order and contain the violence. The death of El Mencho, while a significant blow to the CJNG, has not immediately alleviated Mexico's cartel problem. With the CJNG being a major supplier of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamines to the U.S market, the implications of this operation will likely continue to unfold in the coming days.