A federal operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, led to the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as 'El Mencho', leader of the Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG). Authorities implemented security measures, including the suspension of massive events, classes, and flights in the state. Narcobloqueos are reported in several areas, impacting transportation and mobility.
On February 22, 2026, a federal operation in the municipality of Tapalpa, Jalisco, ended with the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias 'El Mencho', leader of the CJNG. The Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional (SEDENA) confirmed the takedown, noting collaboration with U.S. intelligence, which had offered up to 15 million dollars for information on him. The CJNG was designated a terrorist organization by Washington last year.
Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro activated the “código rojo” and set up a security table with federal, state, and municipal authorities. He ordered the cancellation of massive events across Jalisco for that Sunday and the suspension of in-person classes on Monday, prioritizing the safety of children, youth, and teachers.
In sports, the Clásico Nacional Femenil between Guadalajara and América, scheduled at Estadio Akron at 5:00 p.m., was postponed. The Club de Béisbol Charros de Jalisco delayed its game against El Águila Softbol at Estadio Panamericano, urging fans to stay calm and follow official guidance.
The cultural agenda was also impacted: Jalisco's Secretaría de Cultura closed museums, exhibitions, and theaters. The Orquesta Filarmónica de Jalisco concert at Teatro Degollado was rescheduled, as was an event at Teatro Diana, suspended for preventive measures. Kali Uchis's concert at Auditorio Telmex was canceled, with automatic refunds for online tickets and in-person returns at box offices.
Subsequent violence included narcobloqueos in Jalisco (Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, and Chapala) and states like Michoacán, Colima, Nayarit, Aguascalientes, Tamaulipas, and Guanajuato. Four more CJNG members died, three were seriously injured, and three soldiers were hospitalized.
In aviation, at least 325 flights were canceled at airports in Puerto Vallarta (139, with international operations suspended), Guadalajara (84, mainly Volaris), and Tepic. Aeroméxico halted all flights to these areas. Bus companies like ETN, Primera Plus, and Estrella Blanca stopped operations on affected highways in at least 15 states.
The U.S. State Department advised its citizens in Jalisco and other states to seek shelter, warning of road blockades affecting flights, taxis, and rideshares in Puerto Vallarta.
