US State Department Advisory after Cartel Leader’s Removal
The US Department of State recently issued an advisory after the capture of Mexico’s notorious cartel leader, Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes. Americans in Jalisco, along with several other states in Mexico, were advised to “evacuate until further notice.”
In the wake of gunfire across the nation, armed groups blocked critical roads, leading to many tourists being stranded and forced to stay put.
On Sunday, Mexican Army special forces, with the backing of the air force and National Guard, launched an operation to apprehend Oseguera Cervantes in Tapalpa, located in the Jalisco state.
“The United States will ensure that narco-terrorists who bring deadly drugs into our homeland face the wrath of justice,” a statement mentioned.
At 59, Oseguera Cervantes has led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of the most feared criminal organizations in Mexico.
The State Department pointed out that under the Trump administration, the CJNG was highlighted as having significant trafficking capabilities, including cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl, especially in recent years.
Aside from its involvement in lethal drug trafficking, the CJNG has developed a notorious reputation for extreme violence against both police and rival traffickers. It’s also believed to have participated in several assassination attempts against government officials.
During the military operation on Sunday, Mexican forces did face resistance; however, they were able to repel the attack, resulting in the deaths of four CJNG members on-site and several others injured. Reports indicate that Oseguera Cervantes sustained injuries during the operation and might have died during transport.
While both Mexican and US officials believe Oseguera Cervantes was killed in the operation, the confirmation through forensic examination is still pending.
In response to the events, the Mexican army and National Guard have been deployed to Jalisco and surrounding states to help maintain order. Authorities have also confiscated numerous vehicles and weapons associated with the cartel.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, whose party has faced accusations of collusion with cartels, urged the public to stay informed and calm amid the chaos.
Authorities confirmed the deaths of seven Mexican National Guard soldiers in addition to other casualties during the operation.
As a precaution, the US State Department reiterated the necessity for its citizens in the area to shelter in place, highlighting that while no airports are officially closed, traffic blockades are severely impacting airline operations, leading to many flight cancellations.
Travelers in areas like Puerto Vallarta have reported significant disruptions, with one individual noting smoke rising from various locations, indicative of the ongoing violence. Others described blockades, abandoned vehicles, and the struggle to secure food, as local stores shut down.
Many were left unsure of their futures as flights to destinations like San Francisco were canceled, with one traveler contemplating renting a car to drive back.
The Trump administration commended the efforts of the Mexican military, describing the operation’s success as a critical development for the region and beyond.
