Mexican drug lord El Mencho's death trigger violence nationwide

Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as El Mencho, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, was killed in a special military operation, triggering widespread violence across Mexico.

The 59-year-old cartel chief was reportedly injured during a confrontation with soldiers in Tapalpa of Jalisco, on Sunday (February 22). He died en route to Mexico City by helicopter, according to the Mexican Army.

A $15 million reward had been announced for his capture, reports BBC.

Following news of his death, armed groups blocked over 20 roads in western Jalisco, set vehicles and trucks on fire, and violent incidents spread to several states, forcing the closure of schools and courts in at least eight states.

President Claudia Sheinbaum urged citizens to remain calm, stating that the military operation was carried out using domestic intelligence and information provided by US authorities.

White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt confirmed US assistance in the operation.

Mexican forces reported six suspected cartel gunmen were also killed, while three soldiers sustained injuries.

El Mencho was one of Mexico’s most powerful drug lords, following Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán of the Sinaloa Cartel and Ismael Zambada. Both Guzmán and Zambada are currently serving sentences in the United States.