By: Isaac Kwabena Boadu Date: 24th February, 2026
Mexican authorities have confirmed the death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). He was killed in a military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, on February 22nd, 2026.
El Mencho was one of Mexico’s most wanted men, with a $15 million bounty on his head offered by the US government. He was a notorious drug lord who led the CJNG, one of Mexico’s most powerful and violent cartels, responsible for trafficking large quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine into the US, contributing to the opioid epidemic ² ¹.
The operation triggered widespread violence across several Mexican states, including Jalisco, Michoacán, and Guanajuato, with reports of burning vehicles, blocked roads, and attacks on security forces. The Mexican government has urged citizens to remain calm and stay indoors.
The US government had offered a $15 million reward for information leading to El Mencho’s capture, and Mexican authorities had also offered a significant reward. The operation was carried out by Mexican special forces, with intelligence support from the US government.
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