Washington, February 24 – The killing of Nemesio ‘El Mencho’ Oseguera Cervantes, the infamous leader of Mexico’s Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), has unleashed a wave of violence across the country. In retaliation for his death during a Mexican military operation on Sunday, cartel members have blocked highways, torched vehicles, and trapped tourists in popular resort areas like Puerto Vallarta.
Mexican Defense Secretary Ricardo Trevilla Treszo confirmed that eight cartel operatives were killed in the raid, which U.S. officials say was supported by American intelligence, including CIA input. ‘This happened because of CIA intelligence,’ a source told The Washington Post.
The CJNG, one of Mexico’s most powerful drug trafficking organizations with operations spanning the country and into the U.S., responded with coordinated fury. Gunmen erected over 85 roadblocks, set fire to dozens of vehicles including a fuel tanker, and launched attacks on security forces. Officials reported more than 25 security personnel and one civilian killed, with over 30 suspected cartel members dead and 70 arrested.
In Puerto Vallarta, a Pacific coast paradise popular with American vacationers, chaos reigned. ‘I looked down and they were completely engulfed in flames. Six cars and a fuel tanker burned,’ said Eugene Marchenko, a tourist from South Carolina. Fox News reported Americans stranded amid the ‘cartel’s violent actions.’
The U.S. State Department launched a 24/7 crisis hotline as airlines suspended flights to Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara. Hundreds of calls poured in from trapped citizens. A security alert urged staying put in affected areas like Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, and Ciudad Guzman, advising to confirm flight schedules before heading to airports.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated Monday that ‘almost all activities have been restored,’ though some services remain disrupted. Analysts warn El Mencho’s death could spark internal power struggles within the CJNG, heightening instability in Jalisco – a host state for 2026 FIFA World Cup matches.
Mexico’s government vows to dismantle cartels and restore order, but the nation faces repeated bouts of such orchestrated criminal violence. The operation marks a significant blow to the CJNG, yet the path to lasting peace remains fraught with danger.