What Happened
On February 22, 2023, Mexican military forces successfully targeted and killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG). The operation was facilitated by intelligence gathered from a meeting between El Mencho and his romantic partner, Guadalupe Moreno Carrillo, reported by Mexico’s Defense Secretary, General Ricardo Trevilla Trejo. Following a series of tactical maneuvers, El Mencho was located in a wooded area near Tapalpa, Jalisco, where he attempted to flee but was ultimately wounded during the confrontation with military personnel.
Why It Matters
The death of El Mencho is significant as he was a central figure in the CJNG, which has been recognized as one of the most powerful and violent drug trafficking organizations in Mexico. His leadership allowed the cartel to expand its operations across the country and into the United States, making it a formidable player in the global drug trade. The CJNG’s violent response to his death raises concerns about potential increases in cartel violence and instability in Mexico, as history has shown that the elimination of a cartel leader often leads to fragmentation and the rise of competing factions.
What’s Next
In the wake of El Mencho’s death, experts warn of a potential surge in violence as rival factions within the CJNG and other cartels vie for control over lucrative trafficking routes. The absence of a clear successor to El Mencho may lead to internal power struggles, further complicating the security landscape in Mexico. Additionally, the Mexican government and law enforcement agencies will need to remain vigilant to prevent a resurgence of violence similar to past experiences following the deaths of other cartel leaders.
