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Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum said there is “full coordination” between federal and state authorities following the reported killing of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as El Mencho, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
Posting on X, Sheinbaum urged citizens to remain calm, saying daily activities continue normally across most of the country despite localized unrest linked to the security operation. She added that the Defense Ministry had briefed authorities on road blockades and other violent reactions triggered by the crackdown.
According to Mexico’s Defense Ministry, Special Forces launched an operation in Tapalpa, a known CJNG stronghold, aiming to capture Oseguera. Troops reportedly came under heavy attack and responded in self-defense. Four cartel members were killed at the scene, while three others — including a suspect identified as Mencho — died during emergency air evacuation. Officials said forensic procedures are underway to formally confirm his identity.
Two additional suspects were arrested during the raid. Security forces also seized armored vehicles and a cache of heavy weapons, including rocket launchers capable of targeting aircraft.
The reported death of El Mencho triggered retaliatory violence across several states, with roadblocks, arson attacks on vehicles and armed confrontations reported. Pablo Lemus Navarro, governor of Jalisco, declared a red alert and suspended in-person school classes on Monday.
Sheinbaum reaffirmed that the government continues to work daily for peace, security and justice across Mexico.