Source: Fortune.com
Summary
Mexican army killed Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho”, during an attempt to capture him in Jalisco state. The killing sparked a wave of violence across the country, with cartel members blocking roads and burning cars in 20 states. Oseguera Cervantes was one of the United States’ most wanted fugitives and had ties to organized crime dating back three decades. The Mexican government sees the killing as a major victory in the fight against cartels, but the long-term effect on Mexico’s security landscape remains unclear.
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The killing of “El Mencho” marks a significant blow to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, but the cartel’s presence in 21 of Mexico’s 32 states and its global reach mean its impact will be felt far beyond Mexico. The power vacuum left by Oseguera Cervantes’ death could lead to a struggle for control within the cartel, potentially sparking more violence. The Mexican government’s success in the operation may give it leverage in its dealings with the US, which has been pressuring Mexico to show results in the fight against cartels.
As one analyst noted, “El Mencho controlled everything, he was like a country’s dictator.” His absence could slow the cartel’s growth and expansion, but also create opportunities for other cartels to move in.
The situation is a reminder that the war on drugs is far from over, and the consequences of this killing will be felt for a long time to come.
Author: Evan Null
