Mexico’s most wanted drug lord El Mencho killed in army raid; highways blocked, flights cancelled in cartel retaliation – top developments
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 23, 2026
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Mexican authorities announced the killing of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho," Mexico's most wanted drug lord and leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. The operation, conducted by the Mexican military in Tapalpa, Jalisco, resulted in his death after he was wounded in a clash with soldiers. This significant blow to organized crime follows the capture of major figures like Joaquín Guzmán ("El Chapo") and has triggered widespread violence as cartel members retaliate.
The aftermath saw coordinated attacks across multiple states, including highway blockades, arson, and clashes with security forces. At least six suspected cartel gunmen were killed, while three soldiers were injured. The chaos forced the U.S. and Canada to issue travel advisories, urging citizens to shelter in place in affected regions like Jalisco, Tamaulipas, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Nuevo León. In Jalisco alone, roads were blocked, and fires destroyed vehicles and buildings, causing panic among residents.
The violence spread rapidly, affecting tourist areas such as Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara. Authorities in neighboring states like Guanajuato reported arson at local businesses, though no injuries were confirmed. Mexican officials have mobilized a joint operation involving the army, National Guard, and municipal police to contain the situation. The U.S., which had offered a $15 million reward for El Mencho's capture, has also expressed concern, designating the cartel as a foreign terrorist organization earlier this year.
This development underscores the ongoing struggle between Mexican authorities and powerful cartels, highlighting the instability and security risks in the region. The incident not only marks a turning point in Mexico's fight against organized crime but also raises international concerns about the potential escalation of violence and its impact on regional stability.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/23/2026