Feb 22 • 20:10 UTC 🇫🇷 France France24

Mexican army kills drug lord 'El Mencho' during operation to capture him

The Mexican army has killed drug lord Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as 'El Mencho', during a military operation in Jalisco.

The Mexican army announced the death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, infamously known as 'El Mencho' and the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, during a military operation aimed at capturing him. The attack took place on a Sunday in Tapalpa, Jalisco, where Oseguera Cervantes was reportedly trying to evade capture. He sustained injuries during the confrontation and subsequently died while being transported to a medical facility in Mexico City. His death represents a significant blow to one of Mexico's most powerful drug trafficking organizations, responsible for the distribution of a large portion of fentanyl and other narcotics into the United States.

The death of 'El Mencho' is not only a critical victory for the Mexican military but also a demonstration of the government's ongoing efforts to combat drug cartels that plague the nation and contribute to a significant drug crisis in the U.S. His cartel, known for its brutal tactics and significant influence, has posed a major challenge to law enforcement, making this operation a pivotal moment for Mexican authorities in their fight against organized crime. This incident may help change the narrative surrounding the Mexican government's capacity to tackle drug-related violence and cartel leadership.

The implications of this operation extend beyond mere law enforcement; they touch upon international relations, particularly with the United States. With the Biden administration focused on combating drug trafficking, the Mexican government's ability to take decisive action against drug cartels may enhance cooperation and support for Mexico from its northern neighbor. Moreover, the dynamic of cartel power in Mexico is shifting, and the vacuum left by Oseguera Cervantes's death might lead to increased violence as rival groups vie for dominance, indicating a complex future for security in the region.

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