Mexican Forces Say They Tracked El Mencho to Cabin by Following His Lover

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by James Wagner

February 24, 2026

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Mexican authorities reported a significant victory in their fight against drug cartels, announcing they had tracked down and killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. According to General Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, Mexico’s defense minister, the operation relied on following one of El Mencho’s lovers, who led them to a cabin in Jalisco state where he was hiding. The operation culminated in a fierce shootout that left several cartel members dead and El Mencho himself fatally wounded. El Mencho, considered one of Mexico’s most ruthless criminal figures, had been the country’s most-wanted drug lord for years. His death marks a major blow to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, which has long been a dominant force in the country’s drug trade. The operation was carried out over the weekend and involved a high-stakes plan to capture El Mencho, resulting in a chaotic but ultimately successful mission. The aftermath of El Mencho’s death was marked by widespread violence as cartel members retaliated across 20 states, attacking security forces, blocking highways, and setting fires in public spaces. At least 62 people were killed, including bystanders caught in the crossfire, and chaos ensued as travelers were advised to shelter in place. The killing of El Mencho is seen as a significant victory for Mexican authorities, particularly as it comes at a time when pressure from the U.S., including threats of military strikes by President Trump, has been mounting. While the operation may ease some tensions with the U.S., the immediate impact on Mexico’s security situation has been severe, with retaliatory violence and disruptions to public order. This development is crucial for readers interested in international news, as it highlights both the challenges and progress in Mexico’s ongoing struggle against organized crime. The success of the operation could signal a turning point in the

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/24/2026