Death toll rises after Mexican drug cartel leader killed in US-backed operation
The death of Mexican cartel leader 'El Mencho' following a US-supported operation has led to violence across Mexico.
U.S. officials praised the Mexican government for successfully killing Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as 'El Mencho,' the notorious leader of the Jalisco New Generation cartel (CJNG), during a military operation backed by U.S. intelligence. This significant event marks a notable step in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking and narco-terrorism in Mexico, as El Mencho was considered one of the most wanted criminals due to his cartel's violent history and widespread operations.
In response to the death of their leader, CJNG unleashed chaos across various states in Mexico. Reports indicated that cartel members erected roadblocks, set vehicles ablaze, and implemented violent measures in an attempt to assert their dominance and retaliate against authorities. The unrest was particularly evident in Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco state, which experienced significant disruptions as citizens feared for their safety, causing a virtual lockdown of the city and affecting transportation and business activities.
The implications of this operation extend beyond the immediate violence, reflecting the complex dynamics within Mexico's drug war and the potential for destabilization as rival factions may vie for power in the aftermath of El Mencho's death. As authorities work to restore order, this incident may provoke further conflict among cartels, warranting close monitoring of the situation and ongoing support from both Mexican and U.S. law enforcement agencies to address the narcotics epidemic.