Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as 'El Mencho' and leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), died during a military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, on February 22, 2026. Mexican armed forces, with U.S. intelligence support, located him after tracking one of his sentimental partners. The confrontation left eight alleged criminals dead and three soldiers wounded.
The operation against Nemesio Oseguera 'El Mencho' began on the morning of February 22 in a wooded area of Tapalpa, a tourist municipality an hour and a half from Guadalajara. According to General Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, Secretary of National Defense, months of military intelligence located the kingpin, for whom the United States offered a $15 million reward. A sentimental partner visited the site on February 20 and left a day before the raid.
The Army, with National Guard and special forces involvement, deployed aerial support with six helicopters and planes. Upon detecting the military presence, 'El Mencho's security group opened fire in a 'very violent' attack. Eight alleged CJNG members died, and three soldiers were wounded. Oseguera fled to a wooded area, where a perimeter trapped him, leading to a second shootout. Severely wounded along with two escorts, he was airlifted to Morelia, Michoacán, but died en route. His body was taken to Mexico City for autopsy.
The death of the CJNG leader, considered a stronghold in Jalisco, sparked violence with 252 blockades in 20 states, 300 flight cancellations, and attacks on businesses like Oxxo. Authorities reported 25 National Guard members killed in reprisals. General Trevilla emphasized: 'They fulfilled their mission and demonstrated the strength of the Mexican State.' The incident occurred at Tapalpa Country Club, a cabin complex with a golf course, highlighting criminal infiltration in tourist areas.
