Operation Targeted El Mencho in Tapalpa with U.S. Intelligence On Feb 20‑21, Mexican special forces and the National Guard stormed a vacation‑rental cabin in Tapalpa, Jalisco, after a tip from a trusted associate of El Mencho’s lover led them to the hideout[1]. The raid, coordinated with U.S. intelligence agencies that supplied actionable information, resulted in the death of cartel founder Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes while he was being air‑lifted to a hospital[1][2]. No American troops participated, though the United States had listed O Mencho as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist with a $15 million bounty[1]. Defense Secretary Ricardo Trevilla Trejo confirmed the informant’s link to the drug lord’s romantic circle was crucial for locating the compound[2]. Analysts warned the raid was largely symbolic and unlikely to dismantle the CJNG’s franchise‑based structure in the short term[1].

Nationwide Cartel Retaliation Triggered Shootouts and Blockades Within hours of the raid, CJNG affiliates ignited road blockades, set dozens of vehicles ablaze, and engaged security forces in at least 20 states[1][3]. The violence claimed the lives of 25 National Guard members, a prison guard, a state attorney‑general employee, a civilian woman, and roughly 30 alleged criminals[2]. Airlines suspended regional flights to tourist hubs such as Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, and curfews were imposed as residents sought shelter[2][3]. Authorities seized rocket‑launchers and other heavy weapons during the operation, underscoring the firepower available to the cartel[3].

Government Mobilizes Troops and Closes Public Services President Claudia Sheinbaum announced the deployment of an additional 2,500 troops to Jalisco and neighboring states to restore order[2]. She also ordered the suspension of in‑person classes in eight states and granted judges authority to close courts when necessary[3]. By the following day, officials reported that “peace, security and normalcy” were being maintained, though sporadic clashes persisted[2]. The rapid security response aimed to protect the upcoming 2026 World Cup matches scheduled in Guadalajara and surrounding venues[1].

U.S. Advisories, Flight Cancellations, and Trump Pressure The U.S. State Department urged American citizens to remain indoors in major tourist cities and opened a 24/7 crisis hotline after the raid[2]. North‑American airlines canceled dozens of flights to Mexican destinations, and Guatemala placed forces on heightened alert along its border[3]. President Donald Trump publicly pressed Mexico to intensify its anti‑cartel efforts, citing the operation as evidence of progress[2]. Analysts noted that Trump’s earlier threats of cross‑border intervention may have influenced the timing of the raid[1].