Cartel Henchmen Unleash Violence After Top Drug Lord Killed in Mexico
Members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of Mexico’s most feared criminal organizations, have unleashed a devastating wave of violence across 20 states following the death of their leader, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as El Mencho. His capture by Mexican special forces led to chaos, with cartel members retaliating aggressively.
The Aftermath of El Mencho’s Death
– El Mencho, considered Mexico’s most wanted man, was shot during a confrontation between his bodyguards and military commandos. He succumbed to his injuries while being transported from Tapalpa, Jalisco, to Mexico City.
– At least six of his security guards were killed during the operation, and three members of the Mexican military sustained injuries, according to the defense ministry.
As news of El Mencho’s demise spread, his cartel launched widespread attacks:
– Businesses were torched, and burning blockades were erected in cities where the CJNG operates.
– In several towns, roads were blocked using spikes and nails. Cartel members commandeered and burned buses and vehicles in the streets.
– Dozens of banks and local businesses, including pharmacies, were set ablaze, leaving plumes of smoke visible in places such as Puerto Vallarta, a popular tourist destination.
Panic in Tourist Areas
In Guadalajara, a key host city for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, travelers at the airport experienced panic as gunfire erupted nearby. Witnesses reported people taking refuge inside the terminal after hearing shots from the highway, despite officials denying any gunfire within the airport itself.
– Major incidents left many streets deserted, as local authorities advised residents to stay indoors.
– Scenes reminiscent of past violence were alarming to many, particularly recalling the chaos following the capture of another notorious drug lord, Ovidio Guzmán López, in 2019.
Tourist Safety Measures
As violence surged in Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific coast, tourists received instructions to shelter in place. Disturbing visuals revealed black smoke billowing from burning vehicles in multiple neighborhoods.
– Approximately 300 visitors were stranded at the local airport as flights were canceled. They were later transported to the city center under heavy police escort for their safety.
– The UK Foreign Office issued a warning for travelers to exercise extreme caution and adhere to local authorities’ guidelines.
Sara Morales, a vacationing mother, described her experience: “I was very afraid because I didn’t know what was happening,” reflecting the uncertainty faced by many in the region.
Government Response and Security Developments
In response to the unrest, the governor of Jalisco declared a “code red,” stopping all public transport and canceling mass events and in-person classes. Reports indicated over 250 incidents of road blockages across the affected states.
While security officials claim that 90% of blockades have since been lifted, fears persist, particularly in Jalisco, CJNG’s stronghold. Authorities reported the arrest of 25 individuals connected to violent events, including looting.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum called for calm, asserting that life continues normally in most regions and praising the security forces for their operation leading to El Mencho’s capture.
The U.S. had previously placed a $15 million bounty on El Mencho for his pivotal role in drug trafficking, especially fentanyl, which poses a significant threat to public health in the U.S.
Conclusion
The violent response from cartel members following El Mencho’s death underscores the ongoing battle between Mexican authorities and powerful transnational trafficking groups. As tensions remain high in various regions, the international community closely watches the developments in this chaotic aftermath. The security situation continues to evolve, and the impact of such events on the local and international landscape cannot be understated.