Who Is El Mencho? Inside the Fall of the Elusive Kingpin Who Turned CJNG Into Mexico's Most Feared Cartel

The death of Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera Cervantes, the shadowy architect behind the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), marks a dramatic turning point in Mexico's long and violent struggle against organised crime.

El Mencho, once a low‑level police officer who rose to command one of the most feared criminal organisations in the world, was killed on 22 February 2026 during a Mexican military operation in Tapalpa, in the western state of Jalisco.

El Mencho was not only the leader of CJNG but also a figure symbolic of Mexico's evolving cartel landscape. Under his command, CJNG expanded rapidly, rivalled longstanding groups such as the Sinaloa Cartel, and became infamous for its brutal tactics, innovative use of weaponry, and expansive international drug trafficking network.

From Policeman to Cartel Kingpin

Born into a humble family in Michoacán, El Mencho's early life was unremarkable. After emigrating to the United States in his youth, he became involved in the heroin trade and was eventually arrested and deported back to Mexico.

There, he joined law enforcement briefly before entering the criminal underworld. Over years of violence, alliances and betrayals, he emerged as a central figure in the CJNG, steering it to the forefront of Mexico's organised crime scene.

Unlike some of his predecessors, such as the infamous Joaquín 'El Chapo' Guzmán of the Sinaloa Cartel, El Mencho maintained a low public profile. He rarely appeared in the media, using intermediaries and coded communications to lead his organisation.

Yet law enforcement agencies in both Mexico and the United States regarded him as one of the most dangerous and elusive figures in the drug trade.

A High‑Stakes Military Operation

The operation that ended El Mencho's life was a major coordinated effort by the Mexican military. According to the Mexican defence ministry, federal forces engaged cartel members in Tapalpa, where troops came under fire. El Mencho was wounded during the clash and later died while being transported to a hospital in Mexico City.

Officials confirmed that several other alleged cartel members were killed during the operation. Security forces also seized weapons and arrested suspects at the scene. The operation demonstrated Mexico's increasing willingness and capability to target cartel leadership, a mission long backed by significant pressure from international partners, particularly the United States.

CJNG's Reach and Criminal Activities

Under El Mencho's leadership, CJNG became notorious not only for drug trafficking but also for a wide range of criminal enterprises. The cartel trafficked large quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and other illegal substances into the United States, contributing to the ongoing opioid crisis.

CJNG also diversified into extortion, kidnapping, forced labour, and fuel theft, among other rackets. Its paramilitary structure, heavily armed cells, and tactical sophistication set it apart from many rival groups. These capabilities allowed it to expand both domestically and internationally, making it one of Mexico's most powerful criminal organisations.

Immediate Aftermath and Security Response

The confirmation of El Mencho's death triggered a swift reaction from authorities across Mexico. Federal and state security forces increased patrols, reinforced checkpoints, and sought to maintain stability as local populations reacted to the news.

In parts of Jalisco and other states, authorities reported that vehicles were set on fire and criminal blockades were established by members of organised crime in the immediate aftermath of the operation. Security units worked to dismantle these disruptions and protect key infrastructure and communities.

A Legacy of Violence and Criminal Influence

El Mencho's reign left behind a legacy defined by violence, territorial conquest, and deep penetration into communities across Mexico. For years, his cartel operated with near‑impunity in many regions and was responsible for numerous violent confrontations with state forces and rival organisations.

Although his death signals a key victory for law enforcement, CJNG remains a formidable organisation with entrenched networks and resources. The challenges of dismantling its influence entirely will require sustained efforts by Mexican authorities and international partners.