Smoke, Action and Violence... Mexico Burns Over the Death of Drug Lord 'El Mencho

Mexican security forces on Sunday killed Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, alias 'El Mencho,' the head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of the world's most dangerous drug lords. Following his death, violence has spread across more than half a dozen states, and the situation remains tense. Gunmen reportedly set dozens of vehicles and buildings on fire and blacked out highways. Security forces have launched an operation against the gunmen and increased security in the affected states, and schools have also been closed in several states. Meanwhile, President Claudia has appealed to the public to maintain peace.

Schools have been closed in several states as the situation worsens.

Violence reportedly erupted in Puerto Vallarta and surrounding areas following El Mencho's death, prompting security forces to launch a major military operation on Monday morning to control the situation. In response, gunmen have blocked several roads and highways, setting vehicles and buildings on fire in half a dozen states, including Jalisco, Colima, Michoacan, and Guanajuato.

Smoke in the Sky

The situation in Puerto Vallarta's downtown and Emiliano Zapata neighborhoods is extremely tense due to the narcoblockade. Security personnel have launched an operation to combat the rioters. Gunmen have strategically set cars on fire to block roads. A thick plume of smoke can be seen over the city. Helicopters are patrolling the skies, and heavy smoke can be seen rising.

President Appeals for Peace

Several videos of the ongoing violence in Mexico are rapidly going viral on social media. The videos show people fleeing in panic at Guadalajara Airport. Security forces are trying to restore control in the affected areas, but local residents remain in a state of widespread fear. President Claudia Sheinbaum praised the security forces, appealed for calm, and assured coordination with all states.

Instructions to Stay Home

Meanwhile, in light of the intense violence in several states, Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus has strictly instructed residents to stay indoors. Public transportation has been suspended throughout the state for security reasons. Schools have been closed on Monday in several affected states, including Jalisco.

Who Was El Mencho?

It should be noted that El Mencho worked as a farm laborer as a child. He later moved to the United States, where he was imprisoned on heroin trafficking charges. He was subsequently deported back to Mexico. After arriving in Mexico, he briefly served in the police force before gradually entering the world of crime. He began working with the Sinaloa Cartel and gradually built his own empire, the CJNG. El Mencho was notorious for his brutality. His gang employed heinous methods, such as beheadings, to intimidate rivals. He reportedly paid large bribes to the police for his protection.