Joint U.S.-Mexico Operation Targets Narco-Terrorist Leader 'El Mencho
Mexican authorities received praise from the United States for eliminating the leader of a major narco-terrorist cartel in the country. The U.S. provided intelligence support for a Mexican operation that resulted in the death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as "El Mencho," the head of the Jalisco New Generation cartel. Cervantes was killed in a confrontation with Mexican forces at his residence during an operation to apprehend him.
Following the death of their leader, the cartel responded with violence across Mexico, setting up roadblocks and setting vehicles ablaze on Sunday. Mexican officials reported that most of the roadblocks had been cleared by the end of the day. Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco state and Mexico's second-largest city, experienced significant disruptions as residents remained indoors due to safety concerns.
The city's international airport operated with limited staff on Sunday night due to the escalation of violence. U.S. Ambassador Ron Johnson commended the Mexican armed forces for their successful operation and acknowledged their dedication in a statement. He highlighted the unprecedented level of bilateral cooperation under the leadership of Presidents Trump and Sheinbaum.
Cervantes sustained injuries during the capture operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, and passed away while being transported to Mexico City. The War Department confirmed that during the operation, troops engaged in a firefight, resulting in the deaths of four individuals at the scene. Three others, including Cervantes, were wounded and later succumbed to their injuries.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the U.S. government's involvement in providing intelligence support for the operation targeting El Mencho. Describing him as a significant trafficker of fentanyl, she emphasized the joint efforts of the Mexican and U.S. authorities in pursuing him. The U.S. State Department had offered a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to El Mencho's arrest. The Jalisco New Generation cartel, established around 2009, is recognized as one of Mexico's most influential and rapidly expanding criminal organizations.
In conclusion, the successful operation that led to the demise of El Mencho, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation cartel, was a collaborative effort between Mexican and U.S. authorities. The elimination of this prominent figure in the drug trade marks a significant victory in the ongoing battle against narcotics trafficking.