El Mencho Killed in Mexican Army Raid, Cartel Retaliates Violently

CJNG leader died after a February 22 operation in Tapalpa, sparking blockades, arson attacks, and nationwide security reinforcements across Mexico.

El Mencho, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was slain during a military operation in the western part of Jalisco, according to the Mexican Army. Although authorities claimed that his murder represented an important win against organized crime, cartel members in several states attempted widespread vengeance against him in the wake of his death.

Authorities stated that military members faced severe resistance on February 22nd when they attempted to conduct an operation in Tapalpa, a town often associated with the CJNG’s origins. During the operation there was a firefight; several cartel members were killed during the process. El Mencho was injured in the altercation while being transported to a hospital in Mexico City for care.

The CJNG is one of the most powerful and formidable criminal organizations in Mexico; the cartel is primarily responsible for the transportation of cocaine, fentanyl and other narcotics throughout North America. The U.S. government had (and still has) a $15 million dollar reward offered for information leading to El Mencho’s capture and Mexican officials admitted that they received intelligence assistance during their planning process from the U.S.

The news about El Mencho’s death quickly leads to unrest following official statement about his death. Armed cartel members created blockades by setting vehicles on fire throughout Jalisco and in neighboring states, and additional National Guard troops were called to assist local law enforcement due to the violent reprisals by cartel foot soldiers.