Mexico’s Most-Wanted Drug Lord ‘El Mencho’ Killed After Authorities Track Romantic Partner to Secret Cabin
TAPALPA, Jalisco, Mexico — In a decisive blow to organized crime, Mexican military forces killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the notorious leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), after tracking his romantic partner to a remote cabin in the mountainous region of Tapalpa. The operation, which began on February 20, culminated in the death of one of the world’s most-wanted fentanyl kingpins, who carried a $15 million U.S. bounty.
Defense Secretary Ricardo Trevilla Trejo announced at a press conference that military intelligence identified a trusted courier connected to Oseguera Cervantes’s romantic partner. This associate transported her to a secret overnight meeting spot where “El Mencho” was ultimately located. The military’s precise tracking and coordination, supported by U.S. intelligence agencies, led to the successful raid.
“We were able to locate the target through his trusted inner circle,” Trevilla Trejo said. “This operation reflects the ongoing commitment of Mexican authorities to dismantle criminal organizations that threaten national and regional security.”
El Mencho rose to prominence after the arrest of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, taking control of the CJNG, which has become one of the most powerful and violent drug trafficking organizations in Mexico. The cartel is notorious for its production and distribution of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid responsible for a significant portion of overdose deaths in North America.
The Mexican military’s operation was marked by intense confrontations, with reports of armed clashes and heavy firepower used by cartel members. Local residents described military helicopters circling overhead and streets being secured by armed forces. The government issued travel warnings for affected areas, urging civilians and tourists to remain indoors for their safety.
El Mencho’s death is expected to disrupt the CJNG’s operations, though experts caution that cartel violence and fragmentation may continue. The Drug Enforcement Administration has long prioritized the capture of Oseguera Cervantes, citing his role in the global fentanyl trade.
U.S. officials praised the Mexican military’s efforts, highlighting the importance of binational cooperation in combating transnational crime. The U.S. Department of State emphasized ongoing support for Mexico’s security forces and intelligence sharing.
El Mencho’s death follows a series of high-profile operations targeting cartel leadership in recent years, reflecting a broader strategy to weaken drug trafficking networks. However, analysts warn that the CJNG’s decentralized structure may allow it to quickly adapt and continue its illicit activities.
Meanwhile, the Mexican government has vowed to intensify efforts to restore peace and security in regions affected by cartel violence. The Secretariat of National Defense has increased troop deployments and intelligence operations in Jalisco and neighboring states.
As authorities continue to investigate the aftermath of the raid, the international community watches closely, recognizing the operation as a critical milestone in the fight against drug trafficking and organized crime in North America.
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