The Mexican Secretariat of National Defense (Sedena) announced that surveillance on a romantic partner of notorious drug lord Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, commonly known as 'El Mencho', led to the discovery of his hideout in Tapalpa, Jalisco. On February 20, security forces managed to intercept a trusted associate of 'El Mencho', who was responsible for transporting his girlfriend to a secure location. General Ricardo Trevilla disclosed these findings during a press conference on February 23, highlighting the importance of military intelligence in tracking drug cartels.

Following the initial surveillance, it was revealed that the girlfriend left the location the following day, yet intelligence sources confirmed that 'El Mencho' remained in the vicinity, safeguarded by a close circle of security personnel. General Trevilla emphasized the critical role of military intelligence in uncovering details about 'El Mencho's' network, which has proven essential in the fight against organized crime in Mexico. Moreover, the collaboration with U.S. authorities in intelligence sharing was acknowledged as vital in the operational undertakings aimed at apprehending high-profile cartel leaders.

This news underscores the ongoing efforts of the Mexican government and its military to dismantle the CJNG (Jalisco New Generation Cartel), one of the most influential drug trafficking organizations in the country. By focusing on personal connections and close associates of cartel leaders, authorities hope to weaken the operational capabilities of these criminal groups, which continue to pose significant challenges to national security.