Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias ‘El Mencho’, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was killed during a federal operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, on February 22, 2026. The confrontation resulted in the deaths of seven alleged CJNG members, including Oseguera, and triggered narcobloqueos in at least five states. The Secretariat of National Defense (Sedena) confirmed U.S. intelligence involvement in the operation.
On February 22, 2026, Mexican federal forces conducted an operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, 130 kilometers south of Guadalajara, aimed at capturing Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, 56 years old, known as ‘El Mencho’ and leader of the CJNG. According to a Sedena statement, during the action, military personnel were attacked by alleged CJNG members, who repelled the aggression. As a result, four alleged members of the criminal group died at the scene, and three more, seriously injured, died during their air transfer to Mexico City; among the latter was Oseguera Cervantes, whose identity will be confirmed through forensic examinations.
The operation had support from Mexican Air Force aircraft and the Guardia Nacional’s Immediate Reaction Special Force, as well as intelligence from the National Intelligence Center and the Attorney General’s Office. Sedena noted that, under bilateral cooperation with the United States, complementary information was received from that country’s authorities. Three soldiers were wounded and transferred to Mexico City for medical attention. Additionally, two alleged CJNG members were detained, and weapons, armored vehicles, and rocket launchers capable of downing aircraft were seized.
Immediately after the operation, narcobloqueos and vehicle burnings were reported in Jalisco, Tamaulipas, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Nuevo León, among other states. The U.S. Embassy in Mexico issued a security alert for its citizens in these entities, urging them to shelter in place until further notice and avoid areas of police activity. “Due to ongoing security operations, road blockages, and criminal activity, U.S. citizens in the mentioned locations should shelter in place until further notice,” the alert stated.
President Claudia Sheinbaum praised the Army and Armed Forces, stating: “My recognition to the Mexican Army, Guardia Nacional, Armed Forces, and Security Cabinet. We work every day for peace, security, justice, and the well-being of Mexico.” The Security Cabinet reported a broad deployment to restore order and clear roadways.
