Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum called on the public to remain calm following violent unrest that erupted after the killing of El Mencho, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and one of the country’s most wanted drug traffickers. The White House announced that the United States provided intelligence support to Mexico in the operation that resulted in his death.
President Sheinbaum stated that daily life continues as normal across much of the country after the operation targeting El Mencho, and emphasized that her administration is in full coordination with state authorities.
Urging citizens to stay calm, Sheinbaum said:
“This morning, the Ministry of National Defense, the Mexican Army, and the National Guard carried out an operation that led to various road blockades and other reactions. We are in full coordination with all state governments. We must stay informed and remain calm.”
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the United States provided intelligence assistance in the operation in Mexico that killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
Leavitt noted that El Mencho was considered a “high-level target” for both countries due to his key role in fentanyl trafficking. She also recalled that U.S. President Donald Trump had previously designated the CJNG as a foreign terrorist organization.
Sheinbaum stressed that her government continues to work tirelessly to ensure peace, security, justice, and prosperity throughout the country.
What Happened?
A military operation targeting the CJNG was carried out yesterday in the town of Tapalpa, approximately 130 kilometers south of Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco state. Authorities reported that El Mencho was killed during the clash.
Following the operation, suspected retaliatory actions by the criminal organization led to numerous road blockades, vehicle burnings, and arson attacks on businesses in Jalisco and several other states.
Large-scale violence has continued to escalate across multiple regions of the country.
The Jalisco state government urged residents to remain indoors, suspended public transportation services, and activated a “red alert” due to developments threatening public safety.