Mexico Universities Resume Classes After Cartel Leader’s Death
Mexican universities are returning to in-person classes after a brief shift to virtual platforms, following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco Fresh Generation Cartel (CJNG). The move comes as security operations stabilize and authorities deem university environments safe.
Return to In-Person Learning
As of Tuesday, February 24, 2026, approximately 100% of public universities that had temporarily moved to virtual instruction have resumed face-to-face classes, according to Dr. Luis González Placencia, head of the National Association of Universities of Higher Education Institutions (Anuies). This decision was made as a preventative measure in response to violence unleashed in several states following the capture and death of El Mencho.
Coordination with Government and Security Measures
Dr. González Placencia reported receiving confirmation from Ricardo Villanueva Lomelí, Undersecretary of Higher Education of the Ministry of Public Education (SEP), that all six Anuies regions were prepared to return to in-person activities. The Anuies maintained close communication with the SEP, as suggested by President Claudia Sheinbaum, to ensure a coordinated response.
Universities, in collaboration with state governments, conducted security assessments and implemented civil protection protocols before resuming in-person classes. The deployment of federal, state, and municipal security forces has reportedly stabilized communication routes and guaranteed access to university campuses.
Focus on Prevention and Youth Engagement
President Sheinbaum emphasized the importance of prevention in combating organized crime, highlighting the need to provide young people with access to education, cultural activities, and sports as a means of deterring recruitment by criminal groups.
Assurances to Students and Parents
Dr. González Placencia reassured parents and students, stating that Mexican universities are “spaces of peace and resilience.” He reminded them of the Anuies Civil Protection Manual for Higher Education Institutions, emphasizing ongoing efforts to maintain safe learning environments.
Background on El Mencho and the CJNG
Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” was the mastermind behind the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), a major supplier of fentanyl to the United States. The U.S. Had offered a $15 million reward for information leading to his arrest MSN.
El Mencho died whereas being transported in a helicopter after being injured during a military raid on February 24, 2026, in Tapalpa, Jalisco Yahoo News. The raid followed a tip-off regarding a visit from one of his romantic partners The Strait Times.
Following the operation, the CJNG responded with violence, attacking security forces, blocking highways, and setting fire to businesses The New York Times.