The Big Story: The Fall of "El Mencho
Major news broke yesterday and is still unfolding this morning: the Mexican Army has killed Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Because El Mencho was the head of arguably the most powerful and violent cartel in the world, the country is currently in a state of high alert. Here is a breakdown of what is happening right now for Briefly Note.
MONDAY NOTEFEATURE
2/23/20261 min read
1. The Operation
On Sunday, February 22, the Mexican Army launched a precision strike in Tapalpa, Jalisco. Backed by intelligence from the U.S. (including the Joint Interagency Task Force-Counter Cartel), troops moved into the cartel’s mountain stronghold. El Mencho was wounded during the gunfight and died while being airlifted to Mexico City.
2. The Immediate Fallout: "Narco-Blockades"
In a move that has become a cartel signature, CJNG members responded by turning the country into a gridlock of fire.
National Chaos: Over 250 blockades were reported across 20 Mexican states.
Ghost Towns: In Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, cartel members hijacked buses and trucks, setting them on fire to block military movement.
Cancellations: Flights to popular tourist spots like Puerto Vallarta have been canceled by major airlines (Delta, United, Air Canada), and schools are closed today across several states.
3. The Strategy Shift
This is the biggest victory for President Claudia Sheinbaum and Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch. It marks a total departure from the "hugs, not bullets" policy of the previous administration. By taking out a "Kingpin" of this level, the government is signaling a return to high-stakes confrontation, especially as they face pressure from the Trump administration to curb fentanyl trafficking.
The Note to Take Home
While the head of the snake has been removed, the body is still thrashing. History shows that when a cartel loses its "undisputed" leader, violent internal power struggles often follow. The next 72 hours are critical for Mexico's security.