Tuesday, February 24, 2026

Who was ‘El Mencho,’ the Mexican drug lord whose death sparked violence?

Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho”, is a name that strikes fear in the hearts of many in Mexico. He is the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of the most powerful and violent drug cartels in the country. Despite his notorious reputation, El Mencho has managed to consolidate his power and expand his criminal empire, making him one of the most feared and influential figures in the world of organized crime.

Born in 1966 in the small town of Aguililla, Michoacán, El Mencho grew up in poverty and turned to a life of crime at a young age. He started off as a small-time drug dealer, but his ambition and ruthlessness soon caught the attention of the larger cartels. He quickly rose through the ranks and became a key player in the infamous Sinaloa Cartel, led by Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán.

However, in 2010, El Mencho and a group of other high-ranking members of the Sinaloa Cartel broke away and formed the CJNG. This marked the beginning of a new era of violence and terror in Mexico. The CJNG quickly gained a reputation for its brutal tactics, including beheadings, torture, and mass killings. They also became known for their use of military-grade weapons and sophisticated tactics, making them a formidable force to be reckoned with.

Under El Mencho’s leadership, the CJNG has expanded its operations to become one of the most powerful and influential drug cartels in Mexico. They control a large portion of the drug trade, including the production and distribution of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl. They also have a strong presence in the United States, with operations in at least 22 states.

But it’s not just drugs that the CJNG is involved in. They have also diversified their criminal activities to include extortion, kidnapping, and human trafficking. They have even been accused of infiltrating local governments and law enforcement agencies, further solidifying their power and influence.

Despite facing pressure from the Mexican government and rival cartels, El Mencho has managed to evade capture and maintain control over the CJNG. He is known for his elusive nature and has a network of loyal followers who are willing to do anything for him. This has made him a difficult target for law enforcement agencies, who have been unsuccessful in their attempts to capture him.

The rise of the CJNG and El Mencho’s leadership has had a devastating impact on Mexico. The country has been plagued by violence and corruption for decades, and the CJNG has only added to the chaos. Innocent civilians have been caught in the crossfire, and many have lost their lives at the hands of this ruthless cartel.

However, despite the CJNG’s violent reputation, El Mencho has managed to gain a following among some in Mexico. This is due in part to his philanthropic efforts, where he has been known to provide aid and support to impoverished communities. Some see him as a Robin Hood figure, taking from the rich and giving to the poor. This has helped him gain support and loyalty from those who have been neglected by the government.

In recent years, the Mexican government has stepped up its efforts to take down the CJNG and capture El Mencho. They have offered a $10 million reward for any information leading to his arrest, and the United States has also designated him as one of the most wanted drug traffickers. However, El Mencho remains at large, and the CJNG continues to operate with impunity.

In conclusion, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, or El Mencho, is a name that has become synonymous with violence and terror in Mexico. He has led the CJNG to become one of the most powerful and feared drug cartels in the country, and his elusive nature has made him a difficult target for law enforcement. While his actions have caused devastation and suffering, he has also gained a following among some in Mexico. The fight against the CJNG and El Mencho is far from over, but one thing is certain – his reign of terror must come to an end for the sake of the Mexican people.

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