How Mexico took down ‘El Mencho’: tracking a girlfriend and some crucial help from U.S. intelligence

Fortune

by María Verza, The Associated Press

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Mexican authorities successfully captured and killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho," the leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), with assistance from U.S. intelligence. The operation unfolded after military investigators tracked a romantic partner of El Mencho, who led them to his location in Jalisco. Special forces surrounded his hideout, resulting in intense gunfire and the deaths of over 70 individuals, including cartel members and security forces. El Mencho was found hiding in wooded areas near Tapalpa, heavily wounded alongside two bodyguards, and died en route to a hospital. The capture marks a significant victory for Mexican authorities, who had spent years hunting El Mencho, one of the country's most wanted fugitives. U.S. intelligence played a crucial role by providing critical information that confirmed his exact location. The operation involved a coordinated effort between Mexican military units, national guard forces, and helicopters, establishing a land and air blockade to isolate the area. Despite their heavy weaponry, El Mencho and his men were unable to deploy key weapons, such as rocket launchers, during the confrontation. This takedown is seen as a major blow to the CJNG, which has long controlled vast drug trafficking routes in Mexico and beyond. The cartel's influence extends into areas like cocaine production and distribution, making El Mencho a key figure in the global drug trade. His death is expected to disrupt operations and create power vacuums within the cartel, potentially leading to internal conflicts and reduced criminal activity in the short term. From a business perspective, the operation highlights the ongoing challenges of organized crime's impact on regional stability and economic activities. The collaboration between Mexican and U.S. authorities underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating transnational cartels. While El Mencho's death may not immediately dismantle the CJNG, it signals a shift in law enforcement priorities and could deter other cartels from engaging in similarly brazen operations.

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Originally published on Fortune on 2/24/2026