Mexico is witnessing widespread unrest after security forces killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as El Mencho, during a military operation in Jalisco state on Sunday.
El Mencho was the leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). According to Mexico’s Defense Ministry, he was critically injured during a shootout with the army and special forces in Jalisco. Officials confirmed that he died while being airlifted to Mexico City for medical treatment.
His death has triggered intense clashes, arson attacks, road blockades, and security alerts across multiple regions.
Violence spreads across Jalisco
Following the military raid, violent incidents were reported in several cities across Jalisco, including:
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Puerto Vallarta
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Guadalajara
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Tapalpa
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Zapopan
Authorities reported:
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Vehicles and buses set ablaze
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Roadblocks created using burned cars
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Armed confrontations between security forces and suspected cartel members
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Prison unrest in Puerto Vallarta
Flight operations at Guadalajara International Airport and Puerto Vallarta International Airport were temporarily disrupted amid security concerns.
Casualties reported
Officials confirmed that several people lost their lives during and after the operation:
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El Mencho and multiple associates were killed during the raid.
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At least seven National Guard members were reportedly killed in Tapalpa and Zapopan.
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A jail guard died during a prison riot in Puerto Vallarta.
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A Jalisco state prosecutor’s office agent was killed in Guadalajara.
Authorities continue to assess the full extent of casualties and damage.
Fake AI-generated video debunked
Amid the violence, social media posts circulated claiming that a passenger aircraft had caught fire at Guadalajara Airport. However, the Mexican Embassy in the United States clarified that the viral image was fabricated using artificial intelligence.
Officials confirmed that no aircraft belonging to Volaris or any other airline was involved in a fire incident at the airport.
US and Canada issue advisories
In response to the escalating violence:
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The United States issued a “shelter in place” advisory for its citizens in affected areas.
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Canada advised its citizens in Mexico to keep a low profile and avoid public gatherings.
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Several US and Canadian airlines temporarily suspended flight operations to impacted cities.
US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau described the operation as a “significant development” while expressing concern over the ongoing violence.
Reports also indicate that a US military-led intelligence task force — the Joint Interagency Task Force-Counter Cartel — provided support in intelligence gathering for the operation.
What happens next?
Security forces remain deployed across Jalisco and neighboring states to restore order. Authorities have urged residents and travelers to avoid crowded areas and follow official guidance.
The death of El Mencho marks a major shift in Mexico’s fight against organized crime. However, experts warn that short-term violence and retaliation are common following high-profile cartel leadership removals.
