T
he death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho," the powerful leader of the Jalisco Nueva Generacion drug cartel (CJNG), who was killed on Sunday, February 22, by the Mexican army, has triggered an unprecedented wave of violence across much of the country. In response to his killing, roadblocks and attacks erupted in eight states.
Gun battles left dozens dead, both among federal forces and criminals, while Guadalajara, Mexico's second-largest city, suddenly turned into a ghost town for several hours. The military operation underscored the immense challenge of breaking the cycle of violence that has plagued Mexico for far too long, with more than 400,000 people killed and 100,000 reported missing in the past 20 years.
Since taking office in October 2024, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has changed both the tone and tactics in the fight against the cartels. Her predecessor implemented the strategy of "Abrazos, no balazos" ("hugs, not bullets"), which quickly reached its limits in the face of violent and organized cartels. Sheinbaum, for several months now, has opted for a more direct confrontation with criminal groups. The armed forces have been mobilized, commando operations have increased and the neutralization of "El Mencho" is the most spectacular result so far.
