Inside Tapalpa, the Town in Mexico Where El Mencho Made His Last Stand

NYT Homepage

by Paulina Villegas and César Rodríguez

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Times reporters visiting Tapalpa, a serene town in Mexico, found a community in shock following a violent raid on its outskirts that left dozens dead and forced residents to flee. The absence of police or military presence at the site of the clash raised eyebrows, as the battle appeared to take place without any official intervention. This incident has drawn attention to the ongoing struggle between drug cartels and Mexican authorities, with El Mencho, the leader of the CJNG cartel, reportedly making his last stand in this rural area. Tapalpa, a picturesque town known for its peaceful vibe, suddenly became a battleground as clashes between rival groups escalated. The raid occurred on the outskirts of the town, sparing it from direct destruction but leaving scores dead and displacing many residents. The lack of visible security forces where the violence erupted has sparked questions about the government's response and whether the absence of law enforcement was intentional or indicative of broader issues in Mexico's fight against organized crime. This situation highlights the complex dynamics of Mexico's drug war, where power struggles among cartels often result in devastating consequences for innocent civilians. The involvement of El Mencho, a high-profile figure in the CJNG cartel, adds weight to the significance of this event. His death or capture could have far-reaching implications for the group and the broader criminal landscape in Mexico. The lack of police or military presence also raises concerns about the government's ability—or willingness—to tackle organized crime effectively. For readers interested in news, this story underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Mexico in its efforts to combat drug cartels and protect its citizens. It also sheds light on the human cost of these conflicts and the vulnerabilities that persist despite government efforts. The absence of law enforcement at the scene of such a major incident has left many questioning whether the fight against organized crime is being handled appropriately, adding another layer of complexity to an already intricate issue.

Verticals

newsgeneral

Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/26/2026