Feb 22 • 19:47 UTC 🇲🇽 Mexico El Financiero (ES)

US had 'El Mencho' in its sights: offered up to $15 million for his capture

Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as 'El Mencho', the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was reported dead following a military confrontation in western Mexico.

Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, infamously known as 'El Mencho', was killed during a military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, as reported by a federal source on Sunday. The operation was significant given the violent reputation of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) which he led, making this event a notable moment in the ongoing battle against organized crime in Mexico. 'El Mencho' had been a top target for both US and Mexican authorities due to his central role in the cartel's drug trafficking operations.

The U.S. government had intensified its efforts to capture 'El Mencho', offering a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to his capture or conviction. This was part of a larger strategy under the U.S. State Department's rewards program aimed at dismantling drug trafficking organizations of significant concern. Oseguera Cervantes was recognized not only for his leadership in the CJNG but also for his influence and violent tactics that exacerbated the drug crisis in Mexico and beyond.

His killing raises questions about the future of the CJNG and the ongoing violence related to drug trafficking in the region. It remains to be seen whether his death will lead to a power vacuum within the cartel or if it will prompt retaliatory violence. Furthermore, this incident reflects the complex relationship between United States and Mexico in addressing drug trafficking, as both countries try to combat organized crime that has detrimental social impacts.

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