Mexico Deploys 10,000 Troops As Cartel Violence Erupts

Mexican authorities have mobilised 10,000 troops nationwide to restore order after the death of Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera, the notorious leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), triggered widespread retaliatory violence across 20 states.

According to the Mexican army, Oseguera was seriously wounded during a shootout with soldiers in Tapalpa, Jalisco state, on February 22, 2026, and succumbed to his injuries while being airlifted to Mexico City. The operation, which also resulted in the deaths of his right-hand man Hugo H. (“El Tuli”) and several bodyguards, was aided by U.S. intelligence, though no American personnel were directly involved. Officials noted that Oseguera’s girlfriend inadvertently assisted authorities by leading them to his hideout on a Jalisco ranch through her tracked movements.

News of the 59-year-old cartel chief’s death sparked immediate chaos. CJNG members responded by erecting road blockades, setting fire to vehicles, businesses, and other properties, and engaging in armed clashes with security forces. Reports indicate at least 27 members of the security forces, 46 suspected criminals, and one civilian lost their lives in the ensuing violence. A prison break in Jalisco saw 23 inmates escape following an assault by criminal groups. Authorities arrested two suspected cartel operatives and recovered weapons, including rocket launchers.

The unrest severely disrupted daily life in key areas such as Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, forcing school closures, suspension of public transport, and the shuttering of businesses. Residents rushed to stockpile essentials, while tourists remained confined to hotels. Multiple flights to and from the region, including dozens operated by U.S. and Canadian carriers, were cancelled. Several countries—including Britain, Canada, the United States, and Australia—issued travel warnings for affected zones.

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In response, the government reinforced deployments, including an additional 2,500 soldiers to Jalisco, a state set to host FIFA World Cup matches. President Claudia Sheinbaum stated on February 24 that relative calm had returned in many places, though numerous businesses stayed closed.

Oseguera, a former police officer turned avocado farmer, co-founded the CJNG and oversaw the trafficking of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl into the United States. He carried a $15 million bounty from U.S. authorities, and the CJNG is designated a terrorist organisation by Washington. His son, Ruben “El Menchito” Oseguera Gonzalez, is serving a sentence in the U.S.

Experts have cautioned that the power vacuum left by Oseguera’s death could fuel internal cartel conflicts and further bloodshed. The raid occurred amid heightened U.S. pressure on Mexico to stem drug flows, including tariff threats from President Trump.