Mexican soldiers killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, one of the world's most wanted drug traffickers, in a military operation in Jalisco state. His death triggered violence across several states, with cartel supporters setting vehicles ablaze and blocking roads. India has issued a safety advisory for its citizens in Mexico.
The Mexican Defense Ministry announced on February 23, 2026, that 59-year-old Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, was killed during a military operation in the Tapalpa area of Jalisco state. According to the ministry, he succumbed to severe injuries sustained during an air transfer following the operation. El Mencho led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), which had become Mexico's most powerful criminal organization over the past decade and a major source of drug trafficking to the United States.
President Claudia Sheinbaum has not yet officially confirmed the death. She stated that full details would be provided by the security cabinet. Reports of Oseguera's death sparked violence in Jalisco, Guanajuato, Nayarit, Michoacán, and Tamaulipas states. Local media and officials reported that CJNG supporters set fire to buses, trucks, and cars, and blocked major roads. In Guadalajara, people fled streets and transport hubs fearing reprisals.
Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro declared a 'code red' security alert and urged residents to stay indoors. He said, "We are in code red. We repeat the advice not to leave your homes. There are clashes at several federal locations." Public transport was suspended in some areas, and travel on state highways was restricted due to ongoing clashes.
The US Embassy issued a security alert linked to potential reprisals following the CJNG leader's death. It advised US citizens to remain in safe places and monitor local news. Similarly, the Indian Embassy in Mexico issued an advisory on February 23, 2026, for its nationals. The embassy urged Indians in Jalisco (Puerto Vallarta, Chapala, Guadalajara), Tamaulipas (Reynosa and others), Michoacán, Guerrero, and Nuevo León states to seek shelter, avoid areas of law enforcement activity, stay aware of surroundings, and follow local authorities' directions. In emergencies, call 911 and use the embassy helpline +52 55 4847 7539.
