After Mexico’s Most Wanted Drug Cartel Boss Was Killed In A Military Operation, Violence Has Erupted
The cartel launched attacks across some parts of Mexico, setting up roadblocks on highways across 20 states and setting fire to cars, businesses and gas stations.
Violence and chaos have erupted in parts of Mexico after a drug cartel went on a revenge rampage over the killing of its leader, Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes also known as “El Mencho” in a military operation.
El Mencho is the leader of the notorious organized crime group, Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), and one of Mexico’s most wanted men.
He had led CJNG since 2012 and was key to the organization’s expansion from a regional group into one of the most powerful and violent organizations in the world, with operations spanning all of Mexico and growing internationally.
The US has designated CJNG a terrorist organization focused on drug and weapons trafficking.
The organization also has a vast extortion network and ties to agriculture and mining used for money laundering.
Mexico’s authorities began an operation to capture El Mencho after they finally tracked him down at a meeting with one of hisa lovers in Jalisco on Friday, Feb. 20.
Security forces initiated a raid and a firefight ensued, with El Mencho being wounded during the operation.
He later died while police were transferring him to a hospital in the capital on Sunday, Feb. 22.
Following reports of El Mencho’s death, the cartel launched attacks across some parts of Mexico, setting up more than 250 roadblocks on highways across 20 states and setting fire to cars, businesses and gas stations.
Fighting broke out between the military and cartel members in states where CJNG holds its strongest presence that led 25 military soldiers and at least 30 members of the cartel group being killed.
Authorities urged people to stay inside their homes.
Videos from Puerto Vallarta showed thick plumes of smoke rising from burning vehicles and businesses.
Airports from Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara reported flight delays on Sunday.
A video online showed people running inside the airport of Guadalajara — one of the host venues for the upcoming FIFA World Cup — after people heard gunshots inside the terminal, authorities later dismissed criminal groups had taken over the terminal.
By Monday, Feb. 23, authorities said most roadblocks had been lifted, but warned people to remain cautious.
Mexico said that the operation to capture El Mencho was carried out solely by the Mexican army and that no US forces were involved.
US president Donald Trump had recently threatened direct military action against cartels in Mexico.
Analysts say the operation was a way to show Trump that Mexico can handle the cartels by itself, without US forces being involved, according to the Guardian.
Multiple countries have since issued travel advisories urging citizens to delay flights to some parts of Mexico and stay on high alert.
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