Mexico stands at a major turning point again today. The countryβs notorious drug ringleader, Nemecio Oseguera Cervantes, known worldwide as βEl Mencho,β was no longer alive. On February 22, 2026, he was seriously wounded in a massive security forces operation in the Tapalpa area of ββJalisco province and later died. The United States also cooperated in this action, as a reward of $15 million was announced.
El Mencho’s death is proving to be the biggest turning point in Mexico’s drug war.
The βJalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG)β led by El Mencho is one of the most powerful and dangerous drug gangs in Mexico. As soon as they heard of his death, the cartel thugs took to the streets. Trucks were hijacked and set on fire in places, highways were blocked and cities were engulfed in smoke. Big cities like Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta came to a standstill. Flights were suspended at airports, schools were closed, shop shutters fell down.
The cartelβs βnarcobloqueoβ paralyzed all of western Mexico for hours.
Although officials said no civilian deaths had been confirmed, fear and panic were evident. President Claudia Scheinbaum appealed to the public to maintain peace, describing the operation as a major step towards establishing the rule of law. The United States, meanwhile, appeared to appreciate the action.
Now the real question is β will the CJNG fall apart or will new and more dangerous leaders emerge?
Experts warn that power vacuums often increase gang warfare, murder and bloodshed. If the situation spirals out of control, Jalisco’s tourism, markets and foreign investment could be directly affected. Political rhetoric has also intensified in the United States, where some leaders are calling for tougher cross-border action.
The death of El Mencho does end a chapter, but the story of the drug empire remains to be seen.
Mexico now stands at a crossroads β choose the path of tough action or prepare to endure a new round of violence.
