MEXICO CITY — Mexican security forces killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, the elusive leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) known as “El Mencho,” during a military operation in the western state of Jalisco on Sunday, February 21, 2026, according to multiple government sources and Mexican media reports.

The 59-year-old Oseguera, one of the world’s most wanted drug lords, was gunned down in a targeted raid in the mountainous region near Tapalpa, a small town in Jalisco where the CJNG was founded and remains deeply entrenched. A federal official, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the operation, confirmed the death to several outlets including Reuters, CNN and El País. The Mexican Defense Ministry and Attorney General’s office have not yet issued an official statement, but local newspapers and government insiders cited by EL PAÍS and The Guardian reported the killing occurred during a clash with troops.

Oseguera had evaded capture for more than a decade, operating from hidden mountain strongholds while directing the CJNG’s expansion into fentanyl trafficking, methamphetamine production and extortion across Mexico and into the United States. The cartel, formed in 2010 from a splinter of the Sinaloa Cartel, grew into Mexico’s most powerful and violent criminal group, surpassing rivals through aggressive tactics, corruption of officials and control of key ports like Manzanillo.

The U.S. State Department had offered a $15 million reward for information leading to his arrest, one of the highest bounties ever placed on a drug trafficker. Mexico’s government offered 300 million pesos (about $15 million). Oseguera was indicted in the U.S. on charges including drug trafficking, money laundering and murder, with federal prosecutors in Chicago and Washington labeling him a top priority.

His death comes amid heightened U.S.-Mexico tensions over fentanyl flows and cartel violence. President Trump has repeatedly threatened military strikes inside Mexico and designated several cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, increasing pressure on the Mexican government to act decisively. The operation may ease some bilateral friction, though experts warn it could spark violent succession battles within the CJNG, potentially escalating turf wars in Jalisco, Michoacán and Guanajuato.

Oseguera, born July 17, 1966, in Aguililla, Michoacán, began his criminal career in the 1990s as a police officer before joining the Milenio Cartel. He rose through the ranks after the group fragmented, founding the CJNG with his brother-in-law and cousins. Known for his low profile — rarely photographed and avoiding public appearances — he was dubbed “El Señor” or “El Mencho” (a nickname derived from “menchito,” meaning little mango). He was protected by layers of sicarios, encrypted communications and corrupt officials.

The CJNG under his command was responsible for thousands of homicides, mass graves and attacks on security forces. The cartel pioneered extreme violence, including public executions and attacks on military convoys, while dominating fentanyl precursor chemical imports from China.

If confirmed, Oseguera’s killing represents a major victory for President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration, which has emphasized intelligence-led operations over direct confrontation. However, experts caution that decapitation strategies rarely dismantle cartels long-term, often leading to fragmentation and increased violence as factions vie for control.

The operation unfolded in Tapalpa, a rural area in southern Jalisco, where Oseguera reportedly maintained safe houses. Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro posted on social media urging residents to stay indoors during the action, signaling a significant military deployment. Details on casualties or whether other cartel members were killed remain limited, with authorities withholding full information pending forensic confirmation.

Reactions poured in quickly. U.S. officials expressed cautious optimism, with one source telling Reuters the death could disrupt CJNG supply chains. Mexican security analysts noted the timing aligns with intensified pressure from Washington and domestic demands to curb cartel influence.

Oseguera’s demise leaves a power vacuum in one of Mexico’s most dangerous criminal organizations. Potential successors include family members or top lieutenants, but internal rivalries could trigger bloodshed similar to past leadership transitions.

As investigations continue and the government prepares an official announcement, the killing of “El Mencho” marks a pivotal moment in Mexico’s long war against drug cartels — one that may shift dynamics but is unlikely to end the violence.