El Mencho: Death of Jalisco Cartel Leader and Subsequent Violence in Mexico

Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was killed on February 22, 2026, during a military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, Mexico. He died at the age of 59 from gunshot wounds sustained during the clash with Mexican Armed Forces [1]. His death triggered a wave of violence across several states in Mexico, including road blockades and flight cancellations.

Early Life and Criminal Career

Born on July 17, 1966, in Aguililla, Michoacán, Mexico, Oseguera grew up in a region known for illegal marijuana cultivation [1]. He later emigrated to the United States, where he was arrested and deported after being convicted of heroin trafficking. Upon his return to Mexico, he joined the Milenio Cartel.

Internal conflicts within the Milenio Cartel led to Oseguera’s departure from Michoacán. In 2009, he formed the “Matazetas” (Zeta Killers) alliance with the Sinaloa Cartel, gaining notoriety for killing dozens of individuals associated with the Los Zetas cartel [1]. He later broke away to establish the CJNG.

Rise of the CJNG

Following the extradition of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán and Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, Oseguera transformed the CJNG into one of Mexico’s most powerful criminal organizations [1]. The cartel developed an extensive network of hitmen and even began manufacturing its own weapons. The CJNG expanded its operations to multiple Mexican states and became involved in drug trafficking, extortion, and other criminal activities.

In 2024, the U.S. Department of State designated the CJNG as a terrorist organization, accusing it of illegal fentanyl and migrant trafficking, oil and mineral theft, and arms trafficking [1].

Violence and Attacks

Oseguera was known for his violent nature and willingness to challenge government authorities, unlike other cartels that typically employ violence defensively [1]. In 2020, he ordered an attack on then-Mexico City Police Chief Omar Garcia Harfuch, wounding him and killing three others. Garcia Harfuch currently serves as the country’s public security chief.

In 2015, the CJNG ambushed members of the national gendarmerie and a state police convoy in Jalisco, using RPG weapons to shoot down a military helicopter. The attack resulted in the deaths of dozens of people, including 20 police officers and nine soldiers [1].

Personal Life and Family

Oseguera married Rosalinda González Valencia in the 1990s, and they had three children before divorcing in 2018 [1]. González Valencia was released from prison last year after serving time for suspicious payments related to a car wash she owned. His son, Rubén Oseguera González, known as “El Menchito,” was sentenced to life in prison in the United States for drug and firearms-related crimes [1].

Aftermath of El Mencho’s Death

Following Oseguera’s death on February 22, 2026, gunmen affiliated with the CJNG blocked over 20 roads in western Jalisco state, including Tapalpa, using burning cars and trucks [1]. Violence subsequently spread to other states. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum urged citizens to remain calm and stated that the central government was coordinating with state authorities.

The United States and Canada issued travel warnings for Mexico in response to the unrest following El Mencho’s death. The U.S. Department of State advised citizens to shelter in place due to ongoing security operations, road blockades, and related criminal activity [1].