Trump Takes Credit for Jalisco Cartel Leader’s Capture
Mexico Grapples with Aftermath of Cartel Leader’s Death, U.S. Provided Intelligence Support
– Mexico is navigating a period of heightened violence and political scrutiny following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The operation to capture Oseguera Cervantes, which took place on , in Jalisco state, resulted in a surge of clashes between Mexican security forces and cartel gunmen, leaving more than 70 people dead, according to authorities.
The killing of El Mencho represents the most significant blow to a Mexican cartel since the recapture of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán a decade ago. The U.S. Government confirmed it provided intelligence support to the Mexican army during the operation and applauded the outcome, according to reports.
The immediate aftermath of the operation saw cartel members blocking roads and setting vehicles ablaze. In the town of Tapalpa, Jalisco, where the operation unfolded, a scene of contrasts emerged: children returned to cobblestone streets and shops reopened, while gunshots continued to ring out and a man lay dead next to a bullet-riddled Jeep just outside the town limits. Smoke rose on the outskirts of Tapalpa as security forces continued to engage with cartel fighters.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed the nation on , presenting information about the operation and its leader. The operation occurred during an attempt to capture Oseguera Cervantes, not a targeted assassination, officials indicated.
The CJNG, under Oseguera Cervantes’ leadership, had become one of the fastest-growing criminal networks in Mexico, known for its involvement in trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine into the United States. The cartel has also been responsible for brazen attacks against Mexican government officials.
The situation has drawn attention from the United States, where former President Donald Trump has been publicly urging President Sheinbaum to take stronger action against the cartels. The killing of El Mencho may signal a shift in the dynamic between the two countries, potentially leading to increased cooperation, according to experts.
Ernesto Sagás, a Latin American politics expert at Colorado State University, suggested the violence in Mexico could escalate before stabilizing. He also noted that the success of the operation against Oseguera Cervantes could be either a symbolic victory or the beginning of a broader conflict with the cartels. Sagás indicated that the operation is likely to strengthen the U.S.-Mexico relationship, given Trump’s pressure on Sheinbaum to address the cartel issue.
The impact of El Mencho’s death on the flow of narcotics into the United States remains to be seen. While the removal of a key figure like Oseguera Cervantes is a significant development, experts caution that cartels are often resilient and adaptable, and his death does not guarantee a substantial reduction in drug trafficking. The potential for retaliation from the CJNG and the possibility of a power struggle within the organization also pose ongoing concerns.
Reports indicate that some American tourists found themselves stranded amidst the violence following the operation. The U.S. State Department has not issued any official travel advisories beyond existing recommendations for caution in certain areas of Mexico.
The Mexican government has not released detailed information regarding the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the more than 70 individuals caught in the crossfire. Officials have stated that the casualties included security forces, suspected cartel members, and others, but further specifics remain unclear.