politics
February 22, 2026
Who was ‘El Mencho’? The feared leader of the Jalisco Nueva Generación Cartel killed by the Mexican army
Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, capo of the Jalisco Nueva Generación Cartel (CJNG) killed on Sunday by the army, challenged the Mexican State like few others to consolidate his power, with ambushes of police, an attack against the security czar in the capital, and even the downing of a military helicopter.
TL;DR
- Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, alias ‘El Mencho,’ was the leader of the Jalisco Nueva Generación Cartel (CJNG).
- He challenged the Mexican state through violent actions such as ambushing police and attacking security officials.
- ‘El Mencho’ was one of the most wanted drug lords by the US government, with a $15 million bounty.
- He founded the CJNG after a period with the Milenio cartel and fighting against Los Zetas.
- The CJNG grew to become the most powerful cartel in Mexico after the downfall of ‘El Chapo’ Guzmán and ‘El Mayo’ Zambada.
- The US Department of State declared the CJNG a terrorist organization due to its transnational activities, including fentanyl trafficking and human trafficking.
- ‘El Mencho’ was known for his violent nature and willingness to confront authorities at all levels.
- Notable violent acts attributed to the CJNG include an assault on police chief Omar García Harfuch and the downing of a military helicopter.
- The cartel expanded its drug markets to Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.
- ‘El Mencho’ maintained a low public profile for years, with few known photographs.
- His ex-wife and two sons have been arrested; one son, known as ‘Menchito,’ was sentenced to life in prison in the US.