Mexican army kills leader of powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel during operation to capture him

The Mexican army has killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, the leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel, during an operation to capture him. This event marks a significant victory for the Mexican government in its efforts to combat drug cartels and was achieved with complementary intelligence from U.S. authorities. The cartel's response was swift and violent, with members blocking roads with burning vehicles across nearly a dozen Mexican states, causing widespread chaos and prompting school cancellations and travel advisories. El Mencho was wounded during the operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, and died while being transported. The Jalisco cartel is a major trafficker of fentanyl and other drugs to the United States and has been designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. The cartel is known for its aggressive tactics, including attacks on military personnel and the use of explosives from drones. El Mencho had a long history in drug trafficking and faced multiple indictments in the United States for conspiracy and distribution of controlled substances. The U.S. State Department had offered a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to his arrest. The operation highlights Mexico's increased confrontational stance against criminal groups under President Claudia Sheinbaum's administration.