How Mexico's ‘CJNG’ Drug Cartel Embraced AI, Drones, and Social Media

Wired

by Fernanda González

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The death of Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, the leader of Mexico’s powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), marks a significant shift in the global drug trafficking landscape. Despite his demise, the cartel is expected to endure due to its innovative embrace of technology, including social media, artificial intelligence, and advanced weaponry. The CJNG has become a formidable force by weakening rival cartels through sophisticated tactics, expanding its reach across Mexico and beyond, and diversifying its criminal activities into areas like extortion, money laundering, and arms trade. The CJNG’s origins trace back to the Sinaloa Cartel, with Ignacio “Nacho” Coronel Villarreal establishing an armed wing in Jalisco. By 2011, it had emerged as a dominant cartel, initially positioning itself as a rival to Los Zetas. Under Oseguera Cervantes’ leadership, the group rapidly expanded its methamphetamine production and trafficking networks. Through strategic recruitment of specialists in finance, chemistry, and technology, the CJNG diversified its operations, integrating synthetic drug manufacturing, money laundering, and extortion. A key aspect of the CJNG’s success lies in its use of digital tools for recruitment, propaganda, and fraud. Platforms like TikTok have become critical for attracting new members, while AI-driven models facilitate large-scale financial scams and human trafficking. The cartel also employs cryptocurrency and international trade networks to launder money, further solidifying its global presence. Interpol has warned about the growing sophistication of these operations, which leverage cutting-edge technology to evade law enforcement. The CJNG’s adoption of technology underscores its ability to adapt and evolve, making it a major player in transnational organized crime. For tech enthusiasts and researchers, this highlights both the potential and risks of advanced tools falling into the wrong hands. The cartel’s use of AI, social media, and cryptocurrency not only demonstrates technological innovation but also raises concerns about the ethical implications of such advancements being misused for criminal activities. In summary, the CJNG has redefined modern organized crime by integrating technology to enhance its operational capabilities. Its reliance on

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Originally published on Wired on 2/25/2026