‘US provided key intel’: How Mexican Army took out its most wanted cartel boss 'El Mencho'
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Mexican authorities successfully killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, the leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), during a military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco. The raid, carried out by Mexican special forces with support from aircraft and intelligence provided by the United States, resulted in heavy gunfire and the seizure of weapons, including rocket launchers. El Mencho's death triggered an immediate and violent backlash, with cartel members blocking roads across Jalisco and neighboring states with burning vehicles, leading to widespread disruption of transportation, schools, and public services.
El Mencho, a top fentanyl trafficker designated by the U.S. as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, had long been a target of international law enforcement. His killing was described as a significant blow to organized crime in Mexico and the United States, where his cartel's operations contributed to the surge in fentanyl-related deaths. The CJNG, known for its brazen attacks on security forces and rapid expansion across Mexico, has been one of the country's most violent criminal groups.
The operation showcased the collaboration between Mexican and U.S. authorities, with the latter providing critical intelligence through a newly formed task force. However, the aftermath highlighted the ongoing challenges of combating cartels in Mexico, as the CJNG's retaliation caused widespread chaos and raised concerns about public safety. The incident underscores the complex and dangerous landscape of drug trafficking in the region, with implications for both national security and global efforts to combat organized crime.
This development is significant for readers interested in world news, as it reflects the interconnected nature of transnational organized crime and the need for international cooperation to address such threats. El Mencho's death marks a milestone in the decades-long struggle against Mexican drug cartels, but his legacy as one of the most ruthless traffickers underscores the enduring challenges faced by authorities in Mexico and beyond.
Verticals
worldasia
Originally published on Times of India on 2/23/2026