Mexican authorities have killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, widely regarded as one of the world’s most notorious and most-wanted drug traffickers, during a military operation in the western state of Jalisco. The famed cartel boss better known as “El Mencho” was the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), an organisation responsible for huge quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine and other illegal drugs flowing into the United States and beyond.
According to the Mexican Defence Ministry, troops carried out the operation in the town of Tapalpa, where El Mencho was wounded during a clash with security forces. He later died while being flown to Mexico City for medical treatment, the ministry confirmed. The operation also resulted in the deaths of several cartel members, arrests of others, and the seizure of armoured vehicles, rocket launchers and firearms.
The mission was reportedly carried out by Mexican special forces with intelligence support from the United States, which had offered a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to his capture or death.
El Mencho, who was about 59 years old, had long evaded law enforcement despite being a key target for both Mexican and U.S. authorities. His cartel had grown into one of Mexico’s most powerful criminal organisations, known for extreme violence and territorial expansion following the decline of other major cartels.
News of El Mencho’s death was followed by violent reactions in several states, with cartel supporters reportedly setting vehicles on fire and blocking major highways in protest, prompting warnings from authorities and travel advisories in affected areas.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum commended the military for the operation and urged citizens to remain calm, even as security forces continue efforts to maintain order and prevent escalation.
The killing of El Mencho represents a major development in Mexico’s long and bloody fight against powerful drug cartels and is seen by many analysts as one of the most significant blows to organised crime since the capture of other high-profile cartel leaders in previous years.
Post a Comment