El Mencho, Leader of Jalisco Novel Generation Cartel, Killed in Military Operation

Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was killed in a military operation on Sunday, February 22, 2026, in the western state of Jalisco, Mexico. The news comes after hours of roadblocks and burning vehicles across the state and neighboring areas, tactics commonly employed by cartels to hinder military movements.

Who Was El Mencho?

Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes (born July 17, 1966, and died February 22, 2026, at the age of 59) was the top leader of the CJNG, a powerful organized crime group based in Jalisco. He was considered the most wanted person in Mexico and a high-priority target for U.S. Law enforcement. A $15 million reward was offered by the U.S. Government, and 300 million Mexican pesos by Mexico’s Office of the Attorney General, for information leading to his arrest.

Events Surrounding His Death

The operation resulting in El Mencho’s death followed several hours of disruptions, including roadblocks with burning vehicles in Jalisco and other states. Videos circulating on social media showed smoke billowing over Puerto Vallarta and panic at the airport in Guadalajara. Air Canada suspended flights to Puerto Vallarta on Sunday afternoon due to the ongoing security situation.

The Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG)

The CJNG, established in 2009, has rapidly become one of the most powerful criminal organizations in Mexico. It is considered as powerful as the Sinaloa Cartel and has a presence in all 50 U.S. States, distributing tons of drugs. The cartel is a major supplier of cocaine to the U.S. Market and generates billions of dollars from the production of fentanyl and methamphetamine.

The CJNG has been known for its aggressive attacks on the military, including attacks on helicopters, and for pioneering the use of explosives launched from drones and landmines. In 2020, the cartel attempted a high-profile assassination in Mexico City against the then-head of the capital’s police force.

Legal Proceedings

Oseguera Cervantes had been indicted multiple times in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia since 2017. The most recent indictment, filed on April 5, 2022, charged him with conspiracy and distribution of controlled substances (methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl) for illegal importation into the United States, as well as firearms offenses related to drug trafficking. He was also charged under the Drug Kingpin Enforcement Act for directing a continuing criminal enterprise.