Mexico’s most wanted drug Lord El Mencho killed in military operation; Violence erupts

Mexican forces have killed Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, during a military operation in Jalisco. The $15 million bounty drug lord died after being injured in a clash with soldiers.

Post Published By: Sona Saini

Updated : 23 February 2026, 10:34 AM IST

$15 Million Bounty Drug Shot Dead

Mexico City: The Mexican army claimed to have killed the country's most wanted drug lord, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as "El Mencho," in a major operation on Sunday. He was the head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and carried a $15 million (over 1 billion rupees) bounty on his head. According to the army, he was wounded during a shootout in Tapalpa, Jalisco state, and died while being transported to Mexico City.

Violence erupts nationwide

As news of El Mencho's death spread, members of his gang launched violence in several areas. More than 20 roads were blocked in western Jalisco state, and cars and trucks were set on fire. Several cities, including Tapalpa, are in a state of panic. The streets of the capital, Guadalajara, were nearly empty, as shops, pharmacies, and petrol stations were closed as a precaution.

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Presidential Appeal and International Response

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum appealed to citizens to maintain peace. She stated that the central government, in collaboration with the state administration, is working to control the situation. Following the violence, several countries, including India, have issued advisories for their citizens.

Intelligence from United States

According to an army statement, the operation was carried out based on additional information received from Mexican military intelligence agencies as well as US officials. In addition to El Mencho, six suspected cartel gunmen were killed in the encounter, while three soldiers were injured. Security forces also seized a large quantity of weapons.

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Big Name in Drug Trafficking World

El Mencho was considered Mexico's most powerful drug lord. He was considered one of the most influential figures in the Sinaloa Cartel after the arrests of its founder, Joaquín El Chapo Guzmán, and Ismael Zambada García. His gang primarily supplied drugs to the United States and had influence in several areas of Mexico where his laws were reportedly enforced.

Security forces have been deployed in several parts of the country and the situation is being monitored.