Wave of Violence Sweeps Mexico Following Killing of Cartel Leader 'El Mencho'
Violence has erupted across Mexico following the death of one of the country's most notorious drug cartel leaders, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as 'El Mencho'. The powerful kingpin, who led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), died from his wounds as a result of a military operation in the Tapalpa region. His death has sparked widespread chaos and violence, leaving scores dead and causing significant disruptions in several states, including major tourist destinations.
Who was 'El Mencho'?
El Mencho was the co-founder and leader of the CJNG, a gang known for its displays of ultraviolence and its big, military-style arsenal. A former police officer, he rose to power following the arrest of Joaquín El Chapo
Guzmán, the former head of the Sinaloa Cartel. His death is seen as one of the most significant blows to organized crime in Mexico in recent years.
The Operation and Its Aftermath
The operation to capture El Mencho reportedly began on February 20, with authorities tracking his romantic partner to a secret rendezvous location. During the operation, Mexican troops, supported by US intelligence, were attacked and returned fire, deploying aircraft and specialized units. El Mencho was wounded during the clash and later died while being airlifted to hospital.
Following his death, clashes, road blockades and vehicle burnings erupted in several states, including Jalisco, Michoacán, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, Colima, and Oaxaca. The violence was so severe that the red code was activated in Jalisco, and a state of emergency was declared by Jalisco's governor, Pablo Lemus Navarro.
Reactions to the Killing
Internationally, the operation has been hailed as a major victory. US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau praised Mexico's security forces for eliminating one of the country's most wanted drug lords. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott also announced he is surging state troopers to the border and across the state to enhance public safety operations following the spike in cartel violence.
However, there are concerns that El Mencho's death will not solve Mexico's cartel problem. Al Jazeera English notes that the killings of other cartel kingpins in the past have done little to stem the production and flow of drugs towards the US.
Current Situation and Future Implications
As the situation stands, Mexico is in a state of paralysis. Schools are closed in several Mexican states, and foreign governments have warned their citizens to stay inside. Global Affairs Canada has updated its travel advisory for the coastal city of Puerto Vallarta and other parts of Jalisco, and several international flights have been cancelled.
Despite the chaos, the Mexican government is calling for calm, with Defense Minister Omar García Harfuch offering condolences to the families of soldiers killed in the operation, stating that Mexican military personnel had fulfilled their mission
.
The future implications of El Mencho's death remain uncertain. While it marks a significant blow to the CJNG, history has shown that the removal of cartel leaders often results in power vacuums and increased violence. Only time will tell what impact this operation will have on Mexico's ongoing struggle against drug cartels.