Cartel attacks kill more than two dozen people in Mexico

Al Jazeera

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A recent attack by a Mexican cartel in response to the killing of drug lord Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera has resulted in the deaths of at least 25 Mexican National Guard soldiers, along with other casualties including a prison guard, a state official, and a civilian. This violent reprisal highlights the ongoing tensions between cartels and government forces in Mexico’s ongoing drug war. The incident underscores the unpredictable nature of cartel operations and their ability to exact revenge for perceived slights or losses. The attack occurred shortly after reports surfaced that El Mencho, one of Mexico’s most wanted traffickers, had been killed. His death was confirmed by Mexican authorities, sparking a wave of retaliatory violence from his cartel, known as the CJNG (Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generación). The group targeted National Guard units in multiple locations, demonstrating both their capability and willingness to strike back against government forces. This escalation raises concerns about the stability of Mexico’s security apparatus and its ability to combat organized crime. While the Mexican government has made significant strides in targeting cartel leaders, the cartels have shown a pattern of responding with increased violence. The attack also comes amid heightened international scrutiny of Mexico’s drug war, as global leaders call for stronger measures to curb the flow of illegal substances. The broader implications of this incident extend beyond Mexico’s borders. Cartel activities contribute to the global narcotics trade and transnational crime, making this a matter of international concern. As violence continues to escalate, the focus remains on whether Mexico can maintain its momentum in disrupting cartel operations or if cartels will continue to pose a significant threat to both national and global security. In summary, the attack by the CJNG following the death of El Mencho serves as a stark reminder of the

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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/23/2026