Federal Operation in Tapalpa Reportedly Kills "El Mencho," Triggers Widespread Unrest in Jalisco

A federal security operation conducted in Tapalpa, Jalisco, during the early hours of Sunday, reportedly resulted in the death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The operation prompted significant retaliation across the state, including vehicle fires, armed confrontations, and road blockades, leading authorities to declare a "red code" and implement extensive security measures. Widespread disruptions affected transportation, public services, and daily activities, while international advisories were issued for citizens in affected regions.

Mexican daily El Financiero initially reported the death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the alleged leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), with the Mexican army later confirming the report.

Federal Operation Triggers Unrest

Mexican federal forces carried out an operation in the municipality of Tapalpa, Jalisco. Authorities did not release specific details regarding the mission.

Following the operation, criminal groups initiated retaliatory actions across Jalisco. These included blockades, arson attacks, and armed confrontations. Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro confirmed the unrest, stating that criminal cells reacted by burning vehicles and obstructing highways in both the southern region and metropolitan zones. Governor Lemus activated a "red code" and instructed the establishment of a security coordination table involving all three levels of government to manage the situation.

Widespread Disruptions and Security Measures

The unrest led to significant disruptions and security measures across Jalisco:

• Affected Areas: Reports of cartel blockades and violence increased across the region.
  • Guadalajara Metropolitan Area: Vehicles were set ablaze to disrupt traffic on Avenida 16 de Septiembre, La Paz, Periférico, and Calzada Independencia.
  • Southern Municipalities: Tecolotlán, Tapalpa, Ojo de Agua, Linda Vista, Ayutla, Talpa, the Melaque junction, El Tuito, and the highway toward Morelia experienced similar tactics.
  • Puerto Vallarta: Public buses were reportedly torched downtown, motorcycle pursuits were reported, and a shootout occurred in Ixtapa. Road blockages were reported in the Libramiento area and Highway 200 toward the south zone, with visible smoke in certain sectors. More than 10 vehicles were reportedly set on fire in Puerto Vallarta.
• Security Incidents: Six individuals were detained in multiple incidents. One perpetrator was reported killed at Av. Lázaro Cárdenas & Fuelle. At least three vehicles were confiscated by authorities.
• Transportation:
  • Air Travel: All flights from Guadalajara (GDL) and Puerto Vallarta (PVR) airports were diverted or temporarily closed until further notice.
  • Public Transportation: Services were temporarily suspended in affected zones across Jalisco and in Puerto Vallarta.
  • Roads: Roadblocks were reported across the state capital, Guadalajara, and in Puerto Vallarta.
• Public Services:
  • In-person classes for Monday, February 23, were canceled statewide.
  • All mass events were suspended for the remainder of Sunday statewide.
• Public Advisories: Community safety notices distributed by condominium administrations and property managers advised residents and guests to remain inside, avoid unnecessary travel, and expect possible temporary limitations to building services or amenities.

Regional and International Advisories

The unrest extended beyond Jalisco, with neighboring states reporting security incidents, including Aguascalientes, Colima, Guanajuato, Nayarit, Michoacán, Zacatecas, Veracruz, Tamaulipas, Guerrero, and Nuevo León. Michoacán's Governor, Alfredo Bedolla, indicated similar unrest across 13 municipalities in his state.

International advisories were issued for citizens in the region:

• U.S. Embassy: The U.S. Embassy in Mexico City advised citizens in Jalisco, Tamaulipas, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Nuevo León states to shelter in place, avoid areas of law enforcement activity, minimize unnecessary movements, and monitor local media for updates.
• Government of Canada: The Government of Canada advised Canadians traveling to Mexico to exercise a high degree of caution due to crime and security issues. For Canadian travelers in Puerto Vallarta, recommendations included checking directly with airlines for flight status, expecting ground transportation delays, and staying in contact with accommodation providers or tour operators.

Current Status

Investigations into the incidents are ongoing. Authorities have not provided a detailed timeline for the full reopening of affected roadways or confirmed when airport operations will return to normal. The security coordination table, led by Governor Navarro, remains in permanent session.