politics

February 23, 2026

"El Mencho," the notorious cartel leader killed in Mexico, had a violent history

Updated on: February 23, 2026 / 8:08 AM EST / CBS/AP

"El Mencho," the notorious cartel leader killed in Mexico, had a violent history

TL;DR

  • Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and known as "El Mencho," was killed in a military operation in western Mexico.
  • His death triggered violent clashes, resulting in six other deaths and several arrests, with authorities seizing weapons and armored vehicles.
  • Oseguera Cervantes was wanted by the U.S. for trafficking large quantities of fentanyl and other drugs, with a $15 million reward offered for his arrest.
  • CJNG is heavily involved in drug manufacturing, trafficking, and distribution, including fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine, alongside money laundering operations.
  • The cartel has a history of extreme violence, including assassination attempts, downing a military helicopter, and allegedly luring and torturing potential recruits.
  • El Mencho's son, Rubén Oseguera ("El Menchito"), was sentenced to life in prison in the U.S. on drug and weapons charges.

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