Waves of violence in Mexico as military kills drug cartel boss

Violence has erupted in Mexico after the military killed alleged drug cartel leader Nemesio ‘El Mencho’ Oseguera Cervantes during a security operation in western Mexico. The 59-year-old, identified by authorities as the head of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was shot during a confrontation with troops in Jalisco state, according to official accounts. […]

Violence has erupted in Mexico after the military killed alleged drug cartel leader Nemesio ‘El Mencho’ Oseguera Cervantes during a security operation in western Mexico.

The 59-year-old, identified by authorities as the head of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was shot during a confrontation with troops in Jalisco state, according to official accounts.

Four other suspected cartel members were killed at the scene, while three more — including Oseguera Cervantes — reportedly died while being transported to Mexico City.

Mexican authorities said the operation was aimed at capturing the fugitive, who had long been among the country’s most wanted figures. The United States had previously announced a $15 million reward for information leading to his arrest, and the White House confirmed that US intelligence agencies provided support in tracking his movements.

Within hours of the announcement of his death, coordinated unrest broke out in several regions linked to CJNG operations.

Roads blocked, vehicles torched

In Jalisco and neighbouring states, suspected cartel members set up roadblocks, hijacked and torched vehicles, and exchanged gunfire with security forces, witnesses and local media reported.

In the Pacific resort city of Puerto Vallarta, plumes of smoke were seen rising above major roads as vehicles burned. Authorities urged residents and tourists to remain indoors while security forces worked to secure key routes.

Footage circulated by regional outlet El Occidental showed what appeared to be intense clashes in Tapalpa, a town in the Sierra Madre mountains.

Unverified videos on social media also showed armed men setting fire to a petrol station and blocking highways with burning trucks in parts of Guadalajara.

At Guadalajara’s international airport, passengers were seen running for cover amid fears of retaliatory attacks. Several airlines cancelled or delayed flights as a precaution, citing security concerns.

Schools closed, travel disrupted

The violence forced the temporary closure of schools in multiple municipalities, while transport services were suspended in affected areas. Both Mexican authorities and some foreign governments issued advisories urging citizens to limit movement and monitor official updates.

Security forces were deployed in large numbers across Jalisco and surrounding states, with patrols intensified around airports, government buildings and major highways.

President calls for calm

Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, appealed for calm, stating that “in most parts of the country, activities are proceeding normally.”

She said federal and state authorities were coordinating to restore order and prevent further escalation.