Mexico is grappling with widespread unrest and violence after the killing of Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, the notorious leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
The operation, which involved Mexican special forces with U.S. intelligence support, has triggered retaliatory attacks across at least 20 states, including the burning of vehicles, markets, and public properties. This has resulted in significant casualties and economic losses.
How It Started: The Fatal Operation
The violence erupted following a Mexican military raid on Sunday, in Tapalpa, Jalisco—a secluded area where El Mencho was hiding. Mexican Army and National Guard special forces, supported by U.S. intelligence but without direct U.S. involvement, stormed his compound after tracking one of his romantic partners. El Mencho was severely injured in the ensuing shootout and died en route to Mexico City via helicopter.
The operation resulted in the deaths of eight cartel gunmen on site, with three Mexican military personnel injured.
Cartel members retaliated swiftly, launching coordinated attacks including roadblocks, vehicle burnings, and assaults on security forces.
Losses Due to the Riots
At least 25 National Guard troops were killed in six separate attacks in Jalisco alone. Overall, more than 73 people have died, including cartel suspects, a prison guard, and civilians. One civilian was killed amid the chaos, with reports of over 100 cartel-related murders under El Mencho’s broader reign.
Rioters torched dozens of vehicles, including buses and trucks used as roadblocks, across 20 states.
Markets, public buildings, and even a Costco in Puerto Vallarta were set ablaze, causing millions in damages.
Airports in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta faced disruptions, with gunfire reported and flights canceled.
Economic impacts include halted transportation and tourism, with potential losses in the billions if unrest persists.
Trump’s Reaction
Former U.S. President Donald Trump, whose administration had long pressured Mexico on cartels, reacted sharply on social media on Monday.
He posted: “Mexico must step up their effort on Cartels and Drugs!”
Various Countries Issue Travel Alerts
In response to the violence, several nations have issued urgent travel warnings:
The State Department advised U.S. citizens in affected areas (e.g., Jalisco, Baja California, Quintana Roo) to shelter in place, with a 24/7 crisis hotline (+1-888-407-4747). Flights were canceled, and situations in some areas have normalized.
Canada urged Canadians to keep a low profile, follow local authorities, and noted disruptions in Puerto Vallarta. The Foreign Office warned travelers in Jalisco to stay indoors and exercise extreme caution amid roadblocks and attacks.
Other countries like New Zealand have echoed similar advisories.
Mexico Govt Action
The Mexican government, under President Claudia Sheinbaum, has deployed additional forces to contain the unrest and is conducting arrests of CJNG members. Two cartel suspects were detained during the initial raid, and more operations are underway. El Mencho’s family members, including his son “El Menchito” (serving life in the U.S.) and wife (arrested in 2021), weaken the cartel’s structure, but experts warn of potential turf wars with rivals like the Sinaloa Cartel. Increased violence could spiral, testing Mexico’s security apparatus, though the operation may ease U.S. pressures.
Original article
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