Feb 23 • 19:26 UTC 🇫🇷 France Le Figaro

"People are stuck at home": after the death of "El Mencho", western Mexico lives in fear and waiting

Following the death of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho", residents of western Mexico are experiencing intense fear and disruption as violence escalates.

The recent death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as "El Mencho", the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), has plunged western Mexico into chaos and unrest. As reported by various witnesses, the immediate aftermath was characterized by rampant violence, including arson and car thefts, leading to an overwhelming sense of fear among the population. Streets were closed, flights were canceled, and schools shut down as citizens felt unsafe venturing outside.

One resident, Fabian, who had returned from Lyon to Mexico for family visits, described the dramatic shift in the city's environment. What started as a holiday visit turned into a nightmare, as he witnessed fires erupting around Guadalajara and the city's daily life coming to a halt. The disturbances are not just isolated incidents; they reflect the broader implications of organized crime in the region and how swiftly the social fabric can unravel in the face of violence.

This situation underscores the ongoing challenges Mexico faces with cartel violence and public safety. As residents remain holed up in their homes, fearing for their lives, there are significant concerns about the long-term impacts on community trust, regional stability, and the government's ability to restore order. The death of a major cartel figure often leads to power vacuums and further violence, raising questions about the future safety of towns affected by criminal organizations.

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