BREAKING: In a dramatic military operation on February 22, 2023, Mexican authorities confirmed the death of notorious cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera, known as “El Mencho.” His capture and subsequent death have triggered a violent backlash across the nation, causing widespread chaos and insecurity.
The Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), under Oseguera’s command, is a major supplier of fentanyl to the United States. His demise has unleashed a surge of violence, as cartel members retaliate against Mexican authorities and civilians alike.
The operation began on February 20, following a tip-off regarding Oseguera’s location in Tapalpa, Jalisco. Mexican intelligence tracked the cartel leader’s movements, and military forces quickly mobilized, aided by a new U.S.-military-led task force specializing in cartel intelligence.
By dawn on February 22, Mexican special forces surrounded the area. A fierce gunfight ensued, resulting in the deaths of eight suspected cartel members. Oseguera and his bodyguards fled into nearby woods, where they were ultimately located and engaged in a second shootout.
After sustaining injuries, Oseguera was airlifted to a medical facility; however, he succumbed to his wounds during transit. His death has sparked an unprecedented wave of violence, with cartel operatives launching attacks across Jalisco and beyond.
In the aftermath, “El Tuli,” Oseguera’s right-hand man, emerged as the orchestrator of retaliatory violence, including roadblocks and arson attacks throughout the region. Authorities reported a bounty of 20,000 pesos ($1,100) placed on military personnel by cartel members.
The violence has resulted in at least 30 suspected gang members, 25 National Guard troops, and one bystander killed. Schools and universities have closed down, and several airlines canceled flights to popular tourist destinations like Puerto Vallarta, as residents and tourists were urged to remain indoors for safety.
In a press conference, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that the situation was stabilizing, with no further roadblocks reported as of Monday morning. She assured the public that flights would resume shortly, despite the chaos.
Security Minister Omar Garcia Harfuch confirmed that potential successors to Oseguera are under close surveillance, indicating that further violence may be on the horizon as rival cartels may attempt to exploit the power vacuum left by Oseguera’s death.
As international attention focuses on this developing crisis, U.S. President Donald Trump has called for Mexico to intensify efforts against drug cartels and drug trafficking, emphasizing the critical relationship between the two nations.
This urgent situation remains fluid, and authorities continue to monitor developments closely. Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
