How did El Mencho die? Inside the Mexican military operation that killed the CJNG leader

Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantesbetter known as El Menchothe leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG)was killed in a major Mexican security operation in February 2026. His death marked a pivotal moment in Mexico’s long and violent drug war and triggered widespread unrest across the country.

The Military Operation That Led to His Death

On 22 February 2026Mexican security forces launched a coordinated military operation in Tapalpa, Jaliscoaimed at capturing El Mencho, who had been one of the most wanted cartel bosses in Mexico and the United States. The operation was led by the Mexican Army with support from the National Guard, Air Forceand intelligence agencies. Reports indicate that the mission was conducted after credible intelligence located the CJNG leader in the region.

During the mission, security forces encountered heavy armed resistance from CJNG gunmen. A fierce shootout broke outinvolving automatic weapons and tactical equipment, as soldiers and cartel members exchanged fire. Several cartel operatives were killed in the clashes.

How El Mencho Was Killed

El Mencho was critically wounded during the firefight with Mexican troops. Officials say he was evacuated by helicopter and was being airlifted toward a medical facility in Mexico City for treatment. However, he succumbed to his injuries en route and died before reaching full medical care. His death was later confirmed by Mexican authorities as part of the operation’s outcome.

Official Confirmation and Aftermath

The Mexican government publicly acknowledged the killing of El Mencho, declaring it a major achievement in the ongoing effort to dismantle powerful drug cartels. The CJNG leader’s death was seen as one of the biggest blows to organized crime in Mexico in recent years, given his long tenure evading capture and his cartel’s expansive criminal activities.

Violence and Chaos After His Death

Almost immediately following the announcement of his death, the CJNG and its supporters launched retaliatory attacks and unrest across multiple Mexican states. Reports describe gunmen blocking highways with burning vehicles, arson attacks on businesses, and clashes with security forces in cities including Guadalajara and others in Jalisco, Colima, Michoacán, and Tamaulipas.

The chaos affected daily lifewith some airports experiencing disruptions, authorities issuing warnings to civilians, and foreign governments — including the Indian Embassy in Mexico — advising their citizens to stay indoors due to safety concerns.