The death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho” or “El Señor de los Gallos,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), has been officially confirmed. Death certificate number 3830, issued by the Civil Registry of Mexico City, cites multiple gunshot wounds as the cause of death.
Details of the Death
The official cause of death, as listed on the certificate, is described as “a set of traumatic injuries to the thorax, abdomen, and lower limbs, perforating and penetrating, secondary to wounds produced by a firearm projectile.” This medical description corresponds to gunshot wounds to the chest, stomach, and legs. Oseguera Cervantes died on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. In the municipality of Tapalpa, Jalisco, during a federal operation.
The death is linked to investigation file FED/FEMDO/FEIDCS-JAL/0000230/2026, opened by the Attorney General’s Office (FGR) in connection with the operation. Born on July 17, 1966, in Naranjo de Chila, Aguililla, Michoacán – in the region known as Tierra Caliente – Oseguera Cervantes was living in a common-law relationship at the time of his death.
The FGR confirmed the delivery of the body to Oseguera Cervantes’ family on Saturday, February 28, after completing the corresponding legal and expert procedures, including genetic testing to verify the identity of the deceased and the relationship of those claiming the body. The death certificate indicates the body will be buried, with no further public details released regarding the location.
Implications and Future Outlook
With the release of the death certificate, the death of the man identified by Mexican and U.S. Authorities as the main leader of the CJNG is now officially confirmed. The CJNG has been identified by multiple governments as one of the most powerful criminal organizations in Mexico. “El Mencho’s” death closes a long chapter in the history of Mexican drug trafficking and raises new questions about the future of the cartel he led for over a decade. The cartel will experience internal conflict as it attempts to reorganize, or that other criminal organizations will attempt to exploit the power vacuum. The situation could also remain relatively stable if a clear successor emerges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the official cause of death for “El Mencho”?
The official cause of death, according to the death certificate, was “a set of traumatic injuries to the thorax, abdomen, and lower limbs, perforating and penetrating, secondary to wounds produced by a firearm projectile.”
Where did “El Mencho” die?
Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes died in the municipality of Tapalpa, Jalisco, on February 22, 2026, during a federal operation.
What is the significance of the CURP being removed from the RENAPO?
The removal of Oseguera Cervantes’ CURP from the RENAPO is a standard procedure following the death of an individual, as part of the official protocol for deceased persons.
What impact will this have on the CJNG and the future of drug trafficking in Mexico?