Mexican drug cartel boss ‘El Mencho’ tracked through romantic partner

The Guardian World

by Thomas Graham in Tijuana, Oliver Holmesand Tom Phillips

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Mexican authorities have successfully tracked down and killed "El Mencho," one of the world's most wanted drug traffickers, by following a romantic partner to his secluded hideout near a picturesque mountain town. The leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, was targeted in an operation led by the country’s defense secretary. El Mencho, a former police officer who co-founded the ultraviolent cartel, was known for his ruthless tactics and significant influence in Mexico's drug trade. The capture of El Mencho came after a series of intelligence operations that ultimately led authorities to his safe house through his romantic partner. During a press conference, Mexican officials revealed details about how they tracked down the elusive leader, who had evaded law enforcement for years. The operation was part of an ongoing effort by the government to dismantle organized crime networks and reduce violence in Mexico. El Mencho's death has sparked widespread violence across western Mexico as rival cartels and factions within his own organization clash over control of territory and resources. His cartel, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, is considered one of the most powerful and dangerous groups in the country, with a reputation for extreme violence and territorial expansion. The killing of El Mencho highlights the challenges faced by Mexican authorities in their fight against organized crime. While his capture is seen as a significant victory, the ongoing violence and instability in the region underscore the complexity of combating drug cartels. The case also raises questions about the role of romantic relationships in providing critical intelligence for law enforcement operations. This development is crucial for readers interested in global security, organized crime, and Mexico's ongoing struggle with drug trafficking. El Mencho’s death marks a turning point in the country's efforts to combat cartels but also serves as a reminder of the enduring power and adaptability of these criminal networks.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/23/2026