MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Mexico deploys thousands of troops after violence flares following “El Mencho” death

As reinforcements arrive, authorities are working to clear highways, secure critical facilities and prevent further attacks

Mexico has deployed thousands of additional soldiers and security personnel to contain a wave of violence reported across at least 20 states after the death in custody of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes — known as “El Mencho” — leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), according to federal officials.

Defense Secretary Ricardo Trevilla said an extra 2,500 soldiers were sent to western Mexico on Monday, bringing the overall deployment since Sunday to about 9,500 troops, according to government figures.

The unrest escalated after Mexican special forces captured Oseguera Cervantes in Jalisco. Official accounts carried by international media said he was seriously wounded in a firefight during the operation and died while being transported toward the capital.

In retaliation, CJNG gunmen set up roadblocks, torched vehicles and launched attacks affecting security forces and local infrastructure in areas where the cartel operates. In some towns, attackers scattered spikes and nails across highways to halt traffic; in others, they hijacked buses and trucks and set them ablaze to block key routes.

Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch said at least 25 National Guard members were killed in Jalisco as the violence unfolded, and that operations remain underway to restore order.

AFP, citing García Harfuch, also reported casualties among prison and local justice personnel, as well as dozens of cartel members killed during the unrest and ensuing confrontations.

President Claudia Sheinbaum praised the military operation and said the government’s priority is to guarantee peace and security nationwide. “There is calm, there is government, there are armed forces, and there is a lot of co-ordination,” she said, according to international reporting.

As reinforcements arrive, authorities are working to clear highways, secure critical facilities and prevent further attacks. In Jalisco tourist areas, including Puerto Vallarta, fires and smoke plumes were reported, with verified footage showing military helicopters flying low over hotel zones as smoke rose in the distance.