The recent announcement of the death of Mencho has taken the media by storm, treated with a gravity akin to historical events. This approach suggests that the challenges posed by narcotrafficking hinge on individual personas rather than the intricate networks and systems that allow such crime to thrive. By focusing on the demise of a single figure, it brings a sense of comfort, simplifying a profoundly complex issue and giving the illusion of a resolution in a battle against organized crime.

However, an objective examination reveals that states do not weaken solely due to the presence of organized crime; rather, it is their own failure, either through incapacity or lack of political will, that leads to such vulnerability. The narcotics trade does not merely overpower the state by force; it capitalizes on systemic flaws—facilitated by weak institutions and a selectively enforced justice system. Consequently, the infiltration of organized crime often begins with financial incentives and corruption rather than outright violence, illustrating a gradual normalization of unethical practices within governance.

In light of Mencho's death, questions arise regarding the fate of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The organization's leadership and structure are put into sharp focus as analysts ponder whether the vacuum left by Mencho will lead to chaos within the cartel or signal an evolution in its operations. The aftermath of such a pivotal figure's death may set the stage for significant shifts in the narcotrafficking landscape in Mexico and beyond, raising concerns about the ensuing power struggles and their ramifications on public safety and governance.