A forest cabin in Mexico and a targeted strike: How El Mencho’s girlfriend became central to operation that took him out
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Mexico’s drug war took a dramatic turn as security forces killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The operation, which involved Mexican military intelligence supported by US intelligence, tracked El Mencho to a forest cabin in Tapalpa, Jalisco state. Key information leading to his location came from one of his romantic partners, who provided critical details about his movements and planned meeting with associates.
The breakthrough began when authorities learned that El Mencho’s girlfriend was planning to meet him at a secluded cabin. Using this intelligence, security forces monitored the situation closely. On the day of the operation, El Mencho and two of his bodyguards were seriously injured in a fierce shootout with military units. All three died en route to Mexico City for medical treatment. The raid also yielded a significant cache of weapons, including advanced firepower that highlighted the cartel’s military capabilities.
The operation was part of increasing pressure from US authorities, who had offered a $15 million reward for El Mencho’s capture due to his role in drug trafficking fentanyl into the United States. While Mexican officials emphasized that no U.S. forces participated directly, they acknowledged the crucial intelligence provided by American agencies to pinpoint El Mencho’s location.
The aftermath of El Mencho’s death triggered widespread unrest across Mexico as CJNG members launched retaliatory attacks, burning vehicles, petrol stations, and supermarkets in multiple states. The violence disrupted public transport, flights, and schools, underscoring the ongoing instability caused by drug cartels. This incident highlights the complex and dangerous dynamics of organized crime in Mexico and its impact on regional security.
El Mencho’s killing marks a significant blow to the CJNG but also raises questions about the long-term stability of Mexico’s drug landscape. The operation demonstrates the importance of human intelligence and international cooperation in combating transnational criminal networks. As Mexico continues to grapple with cartel violence, the world watches to see if
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/24/2026