Mexican Army Operation Kills El Mencho, Sparks Nationwide Violence

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Jalisco: Mexican authorities have confirmed that Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, better known as El Mencho, was killed during a high-risk military operation against the Jalisco New Generation Cartel in the western state of Jalisco, a development that has since sparked a wave of violent retaliation across multiple regions of the country.

According to Mexico’s defence ministry, four cartel members were killed at the scene of the raid, while another three suspects later died while being flown to Mexico City for medical treatment a group that included El Mencho himself. The ministry also said three soldiers were injured during the operation and were airlifted to the capital, where they remain under medical care.

The coordinated operation, conducted by the Mexican Army and backed with intelligence support from the United States, targeted El Mencho in Tapalpa, a long-established cartel stronghold and led to the seizure of heavy weapons and tactical equipment. Authorities described the mission as one of the most significant blows to the cartel in recent years, given El Mencho’s role in transforming the group into one of Mexico’s most powerful and violent criminal organisations.

Within hours of the announcement, violence erupted in Jalisco and at least five other states. Witnesses reported roadblocks, burning vehicles, shootings and explosions on major highways, as well as attacks on security forces and public infrastructure in cities like Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta. The unrest was so intense that schools were closed, public transport was suspended in some regions, and airports saw disruptions due to safety concerns.

The backlash has also prompted international travel advisories. The U.S. and Canadian governments issued warnings urging citizens in affected areas to take precautions, stay informed and avoid unnecessary travel, while the Indian Embassy in Mexico advised Indian nationals to shelter in place because of ongoing clashes.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum acknowledged the unrest but stressed that “in the vast majority of the national territory, activities are proceeding with complete normality,” and called on the public to remain calm and vigilant as security forces work to restore order.

Late on Sunday, security officials said additional patrols and aerial surveillance had been deployed in key hotspots, while transport operators in several cities cautiously resumed limited services after temporary suspensions. Authorities warned that the situation remains fluid and that further arrests linked to the cartel’s leadership structure are expected as investigations continue into both the raid and the subsequent attacks.