Mexico’s Sheinbaum Faces Test After Cartel Retaliation Following ‘El Mencho’s’ Death

A top-secret military operation that resulted in the death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation cartel, sparked widespread violence across Mexico, challenging President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration and raising questions about the government’s ability to control organized crime.

Retaliation and Widespread Fear

Following the death of El Mencho on Sunday, cartel operatives retaliated with a wave of attacks in 20 of Mexico’s 32 states. These attacks included torching vehicles, killing dozens of National Guard soldiers, and spreading chaos, leading to widespread fear among the population. Authorities reported 25 National Guard members and 34 criminal suspects were killed, along with a prison guard, an agent from the prosecutor’s office, and one civilian.

Residents in Guadalajara, Jalisco, described deserted streets and closed businesses as cartel members hijacked cars and set them ablaze. Panic buying erupted in the neighboring state of Colima, fueled by rumors of abductions and killings. Schools were closed in some states, and flights were suspended in Puerto Vallarta.

Sheinbaum Downplays Violence, Emphasizes Stability

Despite the widespread unrest, President Sheinbaum sought to reassure the public, stating, “The country is at peace,” and “It’s calm.” Mexican Defense Secretary Ricardo Trevilla Trejo echoed this sentiment, emphasizing “the strength of the Mexican state.” But, many Mexicans remained skeptical, fearing the violence was far from over.

Operation Details and U.S. Involvement

Authorities revealed that intelligence officers tracked the movements of El Mencho’s “romantic partner” to locate his mountain hideout near Tapalpa. During the operation, Oseguera and two of his bodyguards were seriously injured and died en route to a hospital. An arsenal of weapons, including rocket launchers and grenades, was discovered at the compound.

While U.S. Intelligence played a role in providing information, President Sheinbaum clarified that the planning and execution of the operation were the responsibility of Mexican federal forces. This operation marks the most significant takedown of a Mexican cartel leader since the 2016 capture of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán.

Pressure from the U.S. And Cartel Expansion

The operation comes as Sheinbaum faces increasing pressure from the Trump administration to address U.S.-bound drug trafficking. The White House designated the Jalisco cartel as a foreign terrorist group last year and has threatened tariffs and unilateral military action if Mexico does not take stronger action against cartels. U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Ron Johnson, applauded the operation, highlighting increased bilateral cooperation.

Under El Mencho’s leadership, the Jalisco cartel expanded its reach, particularly after the downfall of El Chapo and the weakening of the Sinaloa cartel. The cartel has aggressively encroached on the territory of other gangs, incorporated smaller criminal groups, and allegedly corrupted police officers, judges, prosecutors, and politicians.

Looking Ahead

The Mexican government has deployed thousands of soldiers to Jalisco to reinforce security and prepare for potential further violence as remaining cartel leaders vie for power. The long-term impact of El Mencho’s death remains uncertain, with some analysts suggesting it may simply create a vacuum for other violent criminals to fill.