What we know about Mexican drug cartel leaders still at large
Al Jazeera
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Mexican authorities have announced the killing of Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho," the leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel. While this significant victory has been celebrated by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and her government, other major cartel leaders remain at large, continuing to evade capture and maintain their influence in Mexico's drug trade. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by both Mexican and U.S. authorities in combating organized crime.
Among those still eluding justice are Ismael Zambada Sicairos, known as "El Mayito Flaco," a key figure in the Sinaloa Cartel who has taken on greater responsibilities since his father's arrest in 2024. Another prominent fugitive is Ivan Archivaldo Guzman Salazar, "El Chapito," the son of the infamous Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzmán. El Chapito is believed to be leading a violent internal power struggle within the Sinaloa Cartel, contributing to widespread bloodshed in Mexico. Additionally, Fausto Isidro Meza Flores, known as "El Chapo Isidro," has been added to the FBI's list of ten most wanted fugitives due to his alleged role in trafficking large quantities of drugs and overseeing brutal cartel operations.
The persistence of these leaders underscores the complex and evolving nature of Mexico's drug cartels. Despite efforts by Mexican security forces, the cartels continue to pose significant threats to both national and international security. The violence unleashed after El Mencho
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/23/2026