Following El Mencho’s death, cartel members unleashed violent retaliation across multiple states. Vehicles were set on fire, highways blocked, and widespread panic gripped cities like Guadalajara. Residents sought shelter indoors, and schools were closed as authorities struggled to restore order.
Security forces reported casualties on both sides, with cartel gunmen killing personnel in Tapalpa, Zapopan, Puerto Vallarta, and Guadalajara. Troops also sustained injuries while seizing heavy weapons including rocket launchers and armored vehicles during the unrest.
US and India React
President Donald Trump, responding on Truth Social, made a cryptic post saying, “We’re winning too much, it’s just not fair!” The US government confirmed that it provided intelligence support to Mexico for the operation, calling El Mencho a top target due to his role in fentanyl trafficking into the United States.
The Indian Embassy issued advisories for citizens in Jalisco, Tamaulipas, Michoacan, Guerrero, and Nuevo Leon states, urging them to stay indoors until the situation stabilizes. The advisory also mentioned ongoing roadblocks and potential threats to public safety.
El Mencho’s Criminal History
El Mencho, 59, originally from Michoacan, had a criminal history spanning three decades. He served prison time in the US before deportation and later joined Mexican police. Subsequently, he rose through the Milenio Cartel ranks before founding CJNG and challenging the Sinaloa Cartel. He was one of the most wanted drug lords globally, with the US offering a $15 million reward for information leading to his capture.
Experts say his death could provide Mexico an opportunity to strengthen anti-cartel operations, though uncertainty remains about who will assume control of CJNG and whether violence will continue.
Impact on Daily Life and Travel
Airports in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta operated with limited staff, and US and Canadian airlines canceled multiple flights. Local football matches, including the Liga MX tournament, were suspended due to the unrest. Analysts caution that cartel retaliation could persist depending on CJNG succession dynamics.
According to the International Crisis Group, this marks a turning point in Mexico’s anti-cartel campaign, potentially strengthening cooperation with the US if handled strategically.