Mexican authorities say a tip about Nemesio Oseguera’s romantic liaisons led security forces to the cartel leader’s hideout in Tapalpa, Jalisco, where he was killed in a massive military operation that triggered deadly violence across the country.
A confidante of one of Oseguera’s partners alerted officials to his location, allowing special forces to swiftly plan a raid on a wooded compound outside the town. During the operation, gunmen opened fire, sparking intense clashes that later spread nationwide.
Oseguera, widely known as “El Mencho,” was wounded alongside two bodyguards and airlifted toward Mexico City, but all three died en route, according to Defense Minister Ricardo Trevilla.
At least 62 people were killed in the raid and subsequent unrest, including 25 National Guard members and 34 suspected gang members.
Cartel loyalists responded by setting vehicles ablaze and erecting 85 roadblocks across more than a dozen states.
President Claudia Sheinbaum said by Monday that authorities had regained control, though security was reinforced in Jalisco, the stronghold of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Around 2,000 additional troops were deployed to stabilize the region.
The United States had offered a $15 million reward for information leading to Oseguera’s capture. While US intelligence reportedly helped pinpoint the compound, Mexican officials emphasized that domestic forces led the operation.
Authorities said Oseguera’s right hand man, known as “El Tuli,” organized retaliatory attacks but was also killed during a separate clash with security forces.
The flare up disrupted travel and commerce, with airlines canceling flights and businesses reporting widespread incidents.
Tourism hubs such as Puerto Vallarta were shaken as burned vehicles blocked roads.
Security officials are now closely monitoring potential restructuring within the cartel, warning that while Oseguera’s death marks a major blow to the CJNG, it could also ignite further instability in a country long plagued by organized crime violence.
Goodness Anunobi
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