Deadly Aftermath of CJNG Leader’s Death

Special forces from the Jalisco New Generation (CJNG) cartel reportedly eliminated their own leader, triggering a series of violent reprisals. According to recent reports, 25 members of the Mexican National Guard were killed in six separate attacks that followed the cartel leader’s death.

The operation that led to the demise of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” occurred during a confrontation on Sunday. Eight other cartel members also died in the encounter at his residence in Jalisco state. Mexican Defense Secretary Ricardo Torrevira Trejo shared details at a Monday briefing, indicating that both El Mencho and two of his bodyguards suffered severe injuries during the incident and succumbed during evacuation.

“Six helicopters and special forces moved into the area to ensure the operation was kept secret and surprising,” Trejo stated. “El Mencho fled with a considerable arsenal of weapons. This attack was indeed ferocious, and our special forces managed to repel it,” he added.

Following the leader’s death, violence erupted, according to Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro, who noted in a Sunday publication that disturbances included vehicles being burned and blocked.

In response to these events, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum endorsed a coordinated approach involving the Army, National Guard, and Armed Forces. She mentioned the need for calm in her communication on Sunday, emphasizing the importance of staying informed.

It’s worth noting that the CJNG was classified as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist Organization by the U.S. State Department in February 2025. This designation came alongside acknowledgment of several other drug cartels, with the State Department describing the CJNG as a “transnational organization operating extensively in Mexico,” engaged in drug trafficking, extortion, and arms trafficking.