Chapo, Mayo, Mencho: another Mexican kingpin falls
The Economist
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The capture and subsequent death of Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, the head of Mexico's powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), has sparked widespread violence across the country. El Mencho, a 59-year-old former policeman turned drug lord, was Mexico's most wanted man and led one of the nation's largest and most brutal cartels. His death on Sunday triggered immediate chaos, with roadblocks, burning buses, and flight cancellations disrupting normal life in multiple states, including tourist hotspots like Puerto Vallarta.
The CJNG, under El Mencho's leadership, had become a dominant force in Mexico's criminal landscape. The cartel operated across all 32 states, engaging in activities such as drug trafficking, fuel theft, corruption, and extortion. Its influence extended beyond Mexico, with an international presence that further solidified its status as one of the country's most dangerous organizations.
While El Mencho's capture is a significant victory for Mexican authorities and a boost to U.S.-Mexico relations, it raises concerns about long-term stability. The removal of such a high-profile leader often leads to fragmentation within the cartel, resulting in internal conflicts and increased violence. This escalation could have far-reaching economic consequences, particularly in regions reliant on tourism and transportation.
From a business perspective, the current instability poses risks to Mexico's economy. The violent aftermath has already disrupted key industries, including transportation and tourism, which are crucial for the country's GDP. Investors may also grow wary of doing business in Mexico amid heightened security concerns and potential economic uncertainty.
The situation underscores the complex challenges faced by Mexico in its ongoing fight against organized crime. While targeting major cartel leaders can yield short-term successes, the broader strategy must address systemic issues to achieve lasting stability. The nation's ability to manage this transition will be critical for both public safety and economic growth.
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Originally published on The Economist on 2/25/2026