73 people died in attempt to capture Mexican cartel leader and its violent aftermath: officials
South China Morning Post
by Associated PressFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
At least 73 people lost their lives in a misguided operation by Mexican authorities to capture Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as "El Mencho," the leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The violence erupted during and after the failed attempt to apprehend El Mencho, with casualties including security forces, suspected cartel members, and civilians. The exact circumstances surrounding most of these deaths remain unclear, leaving questions about how the situation escalated so dramatically. This tragic event has sent shockwaves through Mexico, as many fear it could trigger a new wave of violence from the CJNG in retaliation.
El Mencho, one of Mexico's most sought-after cartel leaders, has long been a target of both Mexican and U.S. law enforcement due to his involvement in drug trafficking, arms dealing, and other criminal activities. The Jalisco New Generation Cartel, which he leads, is known for its violent tactics and territorial disputes with rival cartels. The recent bloodshed highlights the ongoing struggle between the cartel and government forces, a conflict that has already claimed thousands of lives over the years.
The operation to capture El Mencho appears to have been a significant military effort, but it backfired spectacularly. Security officials reported casualties on both sides, including members of the Mexican military and national guard. The violence spread rapidly, with clashes breaking out in multiple locations across Mexico. While authorities have not provided detailed accounts of how the situation unfolded, the scale of the bloodshed underscores the dangers posed by El Mencho's cartel and the challenges faced by Mexican law enforcement.
This incident raises concerns about the stability of Mexico's security forces and their ability to combat organized crime effectively. The CJNG's response to the failed operation has left many Mexicans anxious about potential reprisals, further straining the country's already fragile security situation. El Mencho's leadership is a significant threat to public safety, and his continued elusiveness only adds to the chaos.
The broader implications of this event are clear: Mexico's fight against organized crime is far from over. The death
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/23/2026