The article discusses the rise and influence of crime cartels, particularly focusing on the recent violent conflicts triggered by the death of a major cartel leader in Mexico.
On February 22, 2026, Mexican authorities announced the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho," the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. His assassination sparked a wave of violent conflicts between rival factions vying for control in various states, highlighting the significant impact of organized crime on public security. The subsequent violence reflects the power struggles inherent to cartel operations and their influence over local governance and law enforcement.
The events in Mexico underscore the nature of organized crime cartels as broad alliances capable of planning and executing sophisticated operations. These cartels exploit corruption and utilize violent methods systematically to achieve their objectives. Originally arising in Latin America, these networks have evolved into transnational entities, transcending local boundaries and effectively navigating security and legal interventions across different countries, thereby challenging state authority.
The term "cartel" itself has its roots in the Spanish word derived from the Italian "cartello." This etymology suggests a formal agreement among parties, reflecting the operational and tactical alignments among crime organizations. The article emphasizes that the structure and function of these cartels demand a deeper understanding as they significantly influence geopolitical dynamics and require a coordinated international response as they continue to adapt to new security measures.
