The leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias 'El Mencho', was killed on February 22, 2026, in Tapalpa, Jalisco, by Mexican forces with U.S. intelligence support, triggering a surge of violence across at least 20 states. The cartel's response included 85 road blockades, vehicle burnings, and attacks that killed 25 National Guard members, 30 CJNG affiliates, and other civilians. Mexican and U.S. authorities warn of repercussions, as airport operations resume and events like the 2026 World Cup are assessed.
On Sunday, February 22, 2026, a Mexican Army operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, resulted in the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, 'El Mencho', leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of the region's most powerful criminal organizations. The takedown, conducted at Cabañas La Loma Tapalpa with U.S. intelligence collaboration, unleashed a wave of violence affecting nearly a third of Mexico's states.
In response, CJNG criminals coordinated 85 federal highway blockades, vehicle burnings, and attacks on gas stations, stores, and banks. Official reports state this caused the deaths of 25 soldiers, one vigilante, one Jalisco prosecutor's agent, and 30 cartel members. Additionally, a car bomb in San Juan de los Lagos killed National Guard Captain Leonel Cardoso and injured three colleagues. Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch confirmed 70 arrests of alleged cartel members.
In Puerto Vallarta, a commando attacked the Centro Integral de Justicia Regional, enabling the escape of 23 high-risk inmates sentenced for homicide, kidnapping, and drug crimes. The Navy deployed 103 marines via the ARM Usumacinta ship to bolster security, where over 250 criminal incidents were recorded.
The violence disrupted tourism: U.S. tourists were stranded in Jalisco due to flight cancellations and blockades, sleeping in hotels or even zoos. Airlines like American, Delta, and United suspended operations in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, but on February 24, they resumed at 95-96% after lifting the red code.
Internationally, the White House, via Karoline Leavitt, warned cartels of 'grave consequences' for harming U.S. citizens, confirming collaboration in the operation. Texas Governor Greg Abbott deployed agents to the border fearing spillover.
Regarding the 2026 World Cup, President Claudia Sheinbaum assured 'all guarantees' for venues in Jalisco and Nuevo León. However, Bolivia and Portugal requested enhanced FIFA security for March playoffs and friendlies, citing instability in Guadalajara and Monterrey.
Ruth, a searcher mother in Guadalajara, recounted sheltering in an Oxxo during shootouts while posting flyers for her missing daughter, allegedly linked to the CJNG. In Tijuana, a CJNG narco-banner hung on a high school supported 'El Mencho', leading to class suspensions.
