US Increases Reward to $15 Million for Capture of “El Mencho”, CJNG Leader
U.S. Increases Reward to $15 Million for Capture of Notorious Cartel Leader “El mencho”
Washington D.C. - The U.S. Department of State has substantially increased the reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Nemesio rubén Oseguera Cervantes, better known as “El Mencho,” to $15 million.
Oseguera Cervantes is the alleged co-founder and leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), a powerful Mexican criminal institution responsible for trafficking fentanyl and other illicit drugs into the United States.
“As 2017, Oseguera Cervantes has been indicted several times in the United States for drug trafficking,” the State Department said in a statement. “Most recently, in April 2022, Oseguera was charged with participating in a continuing criminal enterprise; conspiracy to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl for importation into the United States; and using a firearm during and in relation to drug trafficking crimes.”
The declaration comes nearly two weeks after the arrest of Cristian Fernando Gutiérrez-ochoa, Oseguera Cervantes’ son-in-law, in Riverside, California. Gutiérrez-Ochoa’s arrest was announced by the U.S. Department of Justice on November 21.
The CJNG is considered by the Drug Enforcement Management (DEA) to be one of the most powerful and hazardous criminal organizations in Mexico. The cartel is known for its “extreme violence” and trafficking of substances including fentanyl,cocaine,heroin,and methamphetamine,and also money laundering operations.
“el Mencho” Bounty Jumps to $15 Million: Interview with Drug Enforcement expert
NewsDirectory3.com: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Ramirez. The U.S. has considerably increased the reward for details leading to the capture of El Mencho. Can you shed some light on the importance of this move?
Dr. Ramirez: This unprecedented increase reflects the immense threat posed by Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes and his Jalisco New Generation Cartel. El Mencho is not just a drug trafficker; he’s the head of a ruthless criminal organization responsible for untold suffering, both in Mexico and the United States. The U.S. is sending a clear message: bringing him to justice is a top priority.
NewsDirectory3.com: The CJNG is known for its brutality and expansionist tactics.What makes them such a hazardous force?
Dr. Ramirez: The CJNG has grown exponentially in recent years, employing brutal tactics to eliminate rivals and expand its territory. Their reach extends beyond drug trafficking, encompassing money laundering, extortion, and human trafficking. They’re incredibly well-funded and operate with a level of sophistication rarely seen in cartels. The recent arrest of El Mencho’s son-in-law could be a sign of increased pressure on his inner circle.
NewsDirectory3.com: Some argue that focusing on kingpins like El Mencho is ineffective. what’s your outlook?
Dr. Ramirez: While dismantling the leadership is crucial, it’s a complex issue. Taking down a figurehead like El Mencho can create a power vacuum, potentially leading to more violence and instability. A complete approach that targets the cartel’s financial networks, weapons supply, and recruitment methods is necessary to truly weaken organizations like the CJNG in the long run.
NewsDirectory3.com: What impact could this increased reward have on the efforts to capture El Mencho?
Dr. Ramirez: It might very well be critically importent. The $15 million bounty is a substantial incentive for anyone with information that could lead to his arrest. It might encourage informants within the cartel itself or individuals who have knowledge of his whereabouts to come между.
We appreciate your insights today, Dr. Ramirez.