Mexico Grapples with Cartel Violence After ‘El Mencho’s’ Death

The death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), on Sunday, February 22, 2026, has unleashed widespread violence across Mexico, raising concerns about security ahead of the FIFA World Cup matches scheduled to be held in the country this summer.

Cartel Retaliation and Nationwide Unrest

Following the announcement of El Mencho’s death, the CJNG responded with a wave of arson and road blockades. Authorities reported that cartel members set fires at over 250 locations in 20 Mexican states, blocking roads and creating chaos. Guadalajara, a host city for the World Cup, was effectively shut down, and schools were closed in several states as a precautionary measure. At least 14 people have been killed, including seven National Guard troops.

Military Operation and El Mencho’s Demise

El Mencho was killed during an operation to capture him in Tapalpa, Jalisco, approximately two hours southwest of Guadalajara. He was wounded in the initial engagement and died while being transported to Mexico City. The operation resulted in the deaths of four other individuals at the scene and the arrest of two suspects. Authorities too seized armored vehicles, rocket launchers, and other weaponry.

Impact on the FIFA World Cup

The timing of El Mencho’s death, so close to the World Cup, has raised concerns about security. FIFA representatives have indicated that play-off matches scheduled for Mexico could be moved if complete safety cannot be guaranteed for all participants. Although, other FIFA spokespersons have expressed confidence in Mexico’s ability to host the matches safely.

Mexico is scheduled to host the following matches:

• June 11: Mexico vs. South Africa (Mexico City)
• June 11: South Korea vs. UEFA Playoff D-winner (Guadalajara)
• June 14: UEFA Playoff B winner vs. Tunisia (Monterrey)
• June 17: Uzbekistan vs. Colombia (Mexico City)
• June 18: Mexico vs. South Korea (Guadalajara)
• June 20: Tunisia vs. Japan (Monterrey)
• June 23: Colombia vs. Interkontinental Playoff 1 (Guadalajara)
• June 24: UEFA Playoff D winner vs. Mexico (Mexico City)
• June 24: South Korea vs. South Africa (Monterrey)
• June 26: Uruguay vs. Spain (Guadalajara)
• June 29: Round of 16 (Monterrey)
• June 30: Round of 16 (Mexico City)
• July 5: Round of 16 (Mexico City)

The Dilemma Facing Mexican Authorities

Experts suggest that Mexican authorities are facing a difficult choice: whether to cooperate with cartels to maintain order or to confront them with force, risking further unrest. The extent of the cartels’ influence raises the possibility of tacit agreements to prevent further escalation of violence.

Military Presence and Security Measures

The Mexican government has deployed 10,000 soldiers to maintain order and protect against further retaliation from the CJNG. A heightened military presence is expected throughout the duration of the World Cup.

The death of El Mencho represents a significant blow to the CJNG, which had grow Mexico’s most powerful cartel. However, the immediate aftermath demonstrates the cartel’s capacity for violence and disruption, posing a challenge to the Mexican government as it prepares to host a major international event.