Who was ‘El Mencho’? Rise and fall of most feared drug trafficker of world

Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, better known by his alias “El Mencho,” was one of the most feared and powerful drug traffickers in the world.

As the longtime leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), he built one of Mexico’s fastest-growing and most violent criminal organisations before being killed in a military operation in Jalisco state.

Here is a detailed look at who he was and why he mattered:

Early life and criminal beginnings

Born in 1966 in the western Mexican state of Michoacán, Oseguera Cervantes came from a rural background.

His involvement in organised crime dates back more than three decades.

In 1994, he was arrested in the United States on heroin trafficking charges and served three years in prison.

After being deported to Mexico, he quickly re-entered the criminal underworld and aligned himself with established trafficking networks.

Founding of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG)

Around 2009–2010, he founded the Jalisco New Generation Cartel following splits within existing criminal groups.

Under his leadership, CJNG expanded aggressively, becoming one of Mexico’s most powerful and geographically widespread cartels.

The cartel established operations in at least 21 of Mexico’s 32 states.

It also developed a vast presence across the United States and extended operations to Europe, Asia, and other parts of Latin America.

Criminal operations and global reach

CJNG trafficked cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl into the United States.

The cartel also engaged in migrant smuggling, extortion, fuel theft, and money laundering.

Authorities described CJNG as one of the primary drivers of fentanyl trafficking into North America.

The US State Department offered a $15 million reward for information leading to Oseguera Cervantes’ capture.

Reputation for extreme violence

CJNG became notorious for its bold and militarised tactics.

In 2015, cartel gunmen shot down a Mexican military helicopter in Jalisco, killing several soldiers.

The group attempted a high-profile assassination of Mexico City’s police chief, Omar García Harfuch, in 2020.

CJNG was known for using drones rigged with explosives and improvised explosive devices.

The cartel frequently posted recruitment and propaganda videos online, showcasing heavily armed fighters.

Relationship with the United States

Oseguera Cervantes faced multiple indictments in U.S. federal courts for drug trafficking and organized crime.

The US government designated CJNG as a foreign terrorist organization under the Trump administration.

American and Mexican authorities collaborated closely in intelligence-sharing efforts aimed at tracking him.

US officials consistently identified him as one of their most wanted fugitives.

Operation that killed him

Mexican armed forces located him in Jalisco state during a coordinated operation.

He was killed during an attempt to capture him.

His death marked the most significant blow against Mexican cartels since the recapture of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán a decade ago.

Aftermath and nationwide violence

Following news of his death, cartel members launched violent reprisals.

Vehicles were burned and used to block highways in multiple states.

Schools were closed in several regions due to security concerns.

Security forces across Mexico were placed on high alert.

What his death means

Analysts warn his killing could create a power vacuum within CJNG.

Internal struggles or rival cartels may attempt to seize territory.

Some experts fear a surge in indiscriminate violence if leadership fragmentation occurs.

Others believe the loss of its central figure could weaken the cartel’s cohesion.

“El Mencho” was often described as a shadowy but dominant figure who exercised tight control over his organisation.

Agencies input