Supermarkets, banks, cars set on fire: Cartel goes on revenge spree after El Mencho killed — what's happening in Mexico?
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
After the killing of Nemesio Oseguera, known as El Mencho, the leader of Mexico's powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), the country experienced a surge in violent reprisals. Within hours of his death during a military raid supported by U.S. intelligence, loyalists to El Mencho launched a coordinated attack across multiple states, setting fire to vehicles, burning businesses, and blocking major highways. The violence disrupted air travel, with flights canceled at key destinations like Puerto Vallarta, and forced residents and tourists to remain indoors for safety. This wave of retaliation mirrored past reactions to high-profile cartel leader deaths, highlighting the ongoing instability in Mexico's drug war.
The CJNG's response included targeting government infrastructure and sparking internal conflicts as rival factions vied for control. In Jalisco state, gunmen attacked a National Guard base, while other incidents were reported across Guanajuato, Colima, and Aguascalientes. Despite no confirmed civilian deaths, the violence paralyzed transportation networks and created an atmosphere of fear among residents. Social media footage showed dark smoke plumes over beaches and armed men patrolling neighborhoods, underscoring the severity of the situation.
El Mencho's killing was carried out in Tapalpa during a raid that involved U.S. intelligence support. His death followed years of dominance by the CJNG, which has been implicated in significant drug trafficking and organized crime activities. The incident reignited international attention on Mexico's ongoing struggle with cartels, particularly concerning the impact of U.S.-backed operations against them. The violence reflects a broader pattern where the removal of key cartel figures often leads to escalation rather than resolution.
This turmoil poses a significant challenge for Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who faces pressure from both domestic and international stakeholders to address cartel activities. The situation also underscores the deep-rooted issues in Mexico's drug war, including the intertwined roles of cartels, government forces, and foreign interests. As rival groups jockey for power within the CJNG, the country
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/23/2026