Drug lord El Mencho killed; cartel rampage brings cities to a halt: What happened in last 24 hours in Mexico
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Mexico experienced an unprecedented wave of violence following the killing of drug lord Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho," during a military operation in Jalisco. His death triggered coordinated retaliatory attacks by cartel members, including arson, highway blockades, prison breaks, and deadly clashes across multiple states. By Monday, at least 46 suspected criminals, 27 security personnel, and one civilian had been killed, with dozens more injured.
El Mencho's demise was the result of a joint operation involving Mexican and U.S. intelligence, which tracked him through his romantic partner. A pre-dawn raid by military forces led to heavy gunfire, forcing El Mencho and his bodyguards into the woods. They were later found dead en route to Mexico City for medical treatment. The violence escalated rapidly, with cartel members setting vehicles, businesses, and public infrastructure ablaze across 20 states.
To restore order, the Mexican government deployed an additional 10,000 troops, including 2,500 in Jalisco alone. Despite efforts to contain the chaos, key cities like Guadalajara were severely disrupted, with schools closing and transportation suspended. International advisories warned travelers to avoid affected regions, reflecting global concerns over Mexico's security challenges.
The incident highlights the enduring power of cartels and their ability to respond violently to leadership losses. While President Sheinbaum emphasized that no U.S. troops participated in the raid, Washington provided intelligence support, underscoring the transnational nature of organized crime. The事件 underscores the ongoing struggle for stability in Mexico and its impact on regional security.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/24/2026