Mexico: CJNG Blockades Disrupt 20 States After ‘El Mencho’ Operation

Violence Sweeps Across Mexico Following Death of Cartel Leader ‘El Mencho’

A wave of violence erupted across Mexico on Sunday, following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The operation to capture him, conducted in the mountainous region of Tapalpa, Jalisco, triggered over 250 roadblocks in 20 states, along with arson attacks targeting vehicles, businesses, and gas stations, according to the Mexican Security Cabinet.

As of Sunday evening, 23 roadblocks erected by criminal organizations remained active, alongside four partial closures. However, authorities reported that 90 percent of the obstructions had been cleared thanks to the deployment of the Secretary of National Defense (Defense), the National Guard, and state and municipal authorities.

Jalisco state bore the brunt of the disruptions, with 65 of the roadblocks concentrated within its borders as a direct response to the death of the CJNG leader. The state government declared a “code red,” suspending public transportation and cancelling mass events and in-person classes, according to reports.

Violence spread beyond Jalisco, with isolated roadblocks reported in Aguascalientes, Baja California, Chiapas, Colima, Estado de México, Guanajuato, Guerrero, Hidalgo, Michoacán, Nayarit, Nuevo León, Oaxaca, Puebla, Quintana Roo, Sinaloa, Tabasco, Tamaulipas, Veracruz, and Zacatecas. Authorities stated these were addressed promptly, with no reported incidents beyond the blockades themselves.

“Thanks to the permanent and coordinated deployment of security forces, the majority of the blockades nationwide have been removed, main roads have been cleared, and remaining points are under operational control, with uninterrupted work to achieve full liberation,” the Security Cabinet stated.

The operation in Tapalpa, located approximately two hours southwest of Guadalajara, resulted in the deaths of four CJNG members during the initial clash with military forces. Three members of the army were also injured. El Mencho himself was wounded during the operation and later died while being transported to Mexico City, according to the Defense Department.

The United States provided intelligence support for the operation, the White House confirmed, as it continues to pressure Mexico to address drug trafficking concerns. The CJNG, under El Mencho’s leadership, has been a major player in trafficking fentanyl and other drugs into the United States.

The widespread unrest caused significant disruption, with Guadalajara effectively becoming a “ghost town,” according to eyewitness accounts. Flights were cancelled, and schools were closed. The U.S. State Department issued a warning to American nationals in parts of Mexico, urging them to “seek shelter and remain in residences or hotels.” Several U.S. Carriers suspended flights to Puerto Vallarta, leaving tourists stranded.

Reports from Puerto Vallarta described the resort town as a “war zone,” with tourists witnessing scenes of violence and disruption. Authorities have arrested 25 individuals in connection with the unrest, 11 for alleged participation in violent acts and 14 for alleged looting and pillaging.

Shops were reportedly set on fire, and approximately 20 bank branches were attacked during the wave of violence. Federal authorities are urging citizens to remain calm and rely on official sources for information.