By: The Trek News Desk
The Mexican government has deployed around 10,000 troops across several states after widespread violence broke out following the death of the country’s most-wanted drug lord, Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera. Authorities confirmed that dozens of people were killed in clashes linked to the unrest.
According to official reports, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes was shot during a military operation in Tapalpa, located in Jalisco state. He later died while being transported to Mexico City for medical treatment. Oseguera was the leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), and the United States had placed a $15 million bounty on him.
Following confirmation of his death, cartel members launched coordinated acts of retaliation in nearly 20 states. Highways were blocked, vehicles set ablaze, and commercial properties attacked. Officials reported that at least 27 security personnel, 46 suspected criminals, and one civilian lost their lives during the confrontations.
In Jalisco, armed groups stormed a prison facility amid heavy gunfire, allowing 23 inmates to escape. State security officials described the assault as a calculated move by organised criminal factions.
In Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco, schools were closed and most public transportation services were suspended. Residents rushed to stock up on essential supplies, forming long queues outside grocery stores and tortilla shops. Pharmacies and many businesses remained shut, reflecting widespread fear among locals.
The tourist hub of Puerto Vallarta, popular among American visitors, was also impacted by the unrest. Travel advisories were issued by the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States, while Australia urged its citizens to exercise caution. Several U.S. and Canadian flights were cancelled as a precautionary measure.
Mexico’s defence officials revealed that Oseguera’s whereabouts were traced through intelligence gathered from one of his close associates. The operation was supported by complementary intelligence from U.S. agencies. However, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum clarified that no American troops were involved in the raid.
During the military operation at a ranch in Jalisco, two suspected cartel members were arrested. Authorities also seized a cache of high-powered weapons, including rocket launchers capable of targeting aircraft and armoured vehicles.
At 59, Oseguera was regarded as one of Mexico’s most ruthless cartel leaders. The CJNG, formed in 2009, rapidly expanded into one of the country’s most dominant criminal organisations. His son, Ruben “El Menchito” Oseguera Gonzalez, has already been convicted in the United States.
Security analysts warn that the absence of a clear successor could trigger internal power struggles within the cartel, potentially leading to further violence in the coming days.
The United States has designated CJNG as a terrorist organisation, accusing it of trafficking cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl into American territory. The operation comes amid continued pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump on Mexico to curb the flow of illegal drugs across the border.
Source: News Agencies
