Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as 'El Mencho', leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel, was killed on Sunday during an operation by Mexican special forces. His death has triggered an unprecedented wave of retaliation in 20 states, paralyzing the country with roadblocks and arson attacks. These events cast a shadow over the security of the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite assurances from the government and FIFA authorities of full control over the situation.

Elimination of El Mencho

Mexico's most wanted drug lord was killed in a special forces operation supported by U.S. CIA intelligence.

Cartel Retaliation Wave

Over 250 roadblocks, arson attacks, and assaults on security forces in 20 states have led to dozens of deaths.

Threat to the World Cup

Macabre discoveries of mass graves near the stadium in Guadalajara raise concerns about the safety of the 2026 World Cup.

Cancellation of Aquatic Events

World Aquatics canceled Diving World Cup in Mexico due to the escalation of drug-related violence.

A Sunday military operation in the tourist town of Tapalpa ended the years-long manhunt for Mexico's most wanted drug lord. Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias 'El Mencho', was tracked down thanks to cooperation with U.S. intelligence and the use of a Predator drone. He died in a clash with special forces, ending the reign of the leader of Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación. Religious altars and manuscripts of psalms were found in the capo's home, shedding new light on his private spiritual sphere. The cartel's reaction to the leader's death was immediate and exceptionally brutal. Group members organized over 250 roadblocks in 22 states, setting fire to vehicles, banks, and gas stations across most of the country. Over 70 people were killed in clashes, including 25 National Guard officers. A particularly dramatic situation prevails in Guadalajara, where hundreds of bags with human remains in mass graves have been discovered around the Akron stadium, set to host World Cup matches. Since the start of the so-called war on drugs in 2006, over 100,000 people have been killed or disappeared in Mexico, and the state regularly grapples with waves of violence following the elimination of successive cartel leaders. Despite the chaos, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and FIFA President Gianni Infantino assure the tournament's safety. On Wednesday, a friendly match with Iceland was played in Queretaro, which, under heightened security measures, ended with a 4:0 victory for the hosts. However, the World Aquatics federation has already decided to cancel the Diving World Cup in Zapopan, citing a lack of safety for athletes. The situation remains tense, and experts warn of possible succession struggles within the weakened cartel. „Of course, we are monitoring the situation in Mexico these days, but I want to say from the outset that we have complete confidence in Mexico, in its president, Claudia Sheinbaum, and in the authorities.” — Gianni Infantino Amidst the power struggles, information has emerged about the role of the deceased leader's wife, Rosalinda González Valencia, known as 'La Jefa', who allegedly managed the cartel's finances and loyalty network. Documents seized in El Mencho's hideout, referred to as 'narconómina' (narco-payroll), reveal the scale of corruption and a payroll list including politicians, prosecutors, and military personnel, which could lead to further shocks at the highest levels of power.

Mentioned People

  • Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes — Leader of the CJNG cartel, known as El Mencho, killed by the Mexican military.
  • Claudia Sheinbaum — President of Mexico, assuring the state's stability after the drug lord's death.
  • Gianni Infantino — President of FIFA, expressing full confidence in the Mexican World Cup organizers.
  • Rosalinda González Valencia — Wife of El Mencho, suspected of managing the finances of the CJNG cartel.