Mexico struck at the heart of the CJNG in a dramatic late-February raid that left notorious kingpin “El Mencho” dead — but the fallout was swift and deadly. As violence flared across 20 states and more than 70 people were killed, officials hailed victory while analysts warned: removing a boss doesn’t uproot the cartel.
In late February 2026, Mexican security forces launched an operation in Jalisco aimed at dismantling the Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), one of the country’s most powerful criminal organizations. The primary target of this operation was Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” who was among Mexico’s most wanted criminals for years
According to official and international reports, Oseguera sustained injuries during the operation and ultimately succumbed to them while being airlifted to Mexico City for medical treatment. The government confirmed his identity through genetic testing before handing his remains over to his family. This careful verification was crucial given the rapid spread of misinformation and propaganda that often outpaces official news, for example, images generated by AI of zones affected or AI-generated press releases from the Guadalajara Airport stating that its operations were stopping.
Recent events illustrate that eliminating a cartel leader does not necessarily dismantle the entire organization. CJNG functions more like a network or a business, maintaining a system of territorial control rather than relying on a single figurehead. In the immediate aftermath of the operation, Mexico experienced a wave of violence and unrest across approximately 20 states, with blocked roads, vehicles set burning, assaults on businesses, and an immense fear disrupting daily life.
Reports indicate that over 70 individuals lost their lives during and following the operation, including members of security forces, suspected cartel affiliates, and civilians. At a press conference, “La Mañanera” reported that 25 National Guard troops were among those killed. This highlights how a government victory can trigger violence aimed at intimidating both communities and authorities.
The United States supplied “complementary” intelligence to Mexican officials, providing support without directly engaging in operations. This distinction is key, emphasizing both the cross-border nature of CJNG’s activities and the political sensitivities surrounding foreign involvement in Mexican security. A pressing question lingers about the future course of violence and security. While government representatives praise the operation as a significant triumph, analysts warn that creating a leadership void may lead to escalated violence in the near term. Removing a central figure can foster competition within the organization for territory, routes, finances, and loyalty. Such internal conflicts often spill into public areas, highways, commercial zones, and neighborhoods, driven by a desire not just for profit but also for control through fear.
In the days following the operation, state authorities maintained heightened security beyond the conflict zone, providing federal protection for forensic facilities and tightly controlling the chain of custody for Oseguera’s body. Measures included surveillance during transport and restricted access at funeral sites to prevent potential public gatherings and further violence.
Dealing with organized crime is like tending a garden choked with weeds. While trimming a few visible weeds may offer short-term relief, unless we tackle the roots and nurture the soil, they will inevitably return, often stronger than before. Similarly, without reinforcing institutions and implementing sustainable policies, organized crime will continue to disrupt society.
Still,
Even though organized crime brings many challenges, we can still hope for a better future if we work together. The recent rise in violence in Mexico after the operation against the CJNG shows that we need more than just quick security fixes; we need bigger changes in society. If we imagine the world we want and take action, we can make real progress.
The pandemic has shown us that we are all connected, and events in one place can affect people everywhere. This reminds us how important it is to build supportive communities and care for everyone’s well-being. When we come together, we can make changes that lead to a safer and fairer society. This means addressing not only the immediate problems of violence but also the deeper causes of organized crime. By working together, we can make lasting improvements that help everyone and move us toward a brighter future.
