Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as ‘El Mencho,’ leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), had a planned escape route prepared with his security detail after leaving cabin number 39 at the exclusive Tapalpa Country Club in this municipality.
Escalating Conflict and Failed Escape
Upon noticing the presence of Federal Forces, ‘El Mencho’ and his allies fled towards the mountainous region. The residential complex of Cabañas La Loma became a battleground between the Mexican Army and CJNG gunmen, who attempted to prevent their leader’s capture. However, ‘El Mencho’s’ escape route ultimately failed when the Army intercepted it.
The area along the access road, paved with cobblestones, revealed two vehicles belonging to ‘El Mencho’s’ special forces incinerated, along with dozens of spent cartridges from Barret caliber .50, 2.23 and 7.62 weapons, as well as grenade launcher warheads. Large areas of grass were burned, and a thermos belonging to the Mencho Special Forces (FEM) was found at the scene.
Evidence of the confrontation remains visible, including blood, sheets, clothing, and numerous spent cartridges. Forensic services have already combed the area, collecting bodies and evidence.
A convoy of three military trucks initially secured the base of the hill, the site of the confrontation and ‘El Mencho’s’ escape route. However, upon detecting a drone, the convoy left the area for security reasons.
A Second Refuge Discovered
Cabañas La Loma in Tapalpa served as another hideout for the cartel leader, where he would retreat with his closest security team: the Mencho Special Forces. Locals refer to the complex as “the cabins of love.”
The most luxurious properties, numbers 7 and 9, located on the upper part of the hill, were reportedly where ‘El Mencho’ rested. A neighbor, requesting anonymity, stated, “All the cabins belong to them [the CJNG],” adding that they were also rented to the public, confirmed by a sign displaying rental information with contact numbers 3339684225 and 3414399317.
A search of property number 9, the most luxurious, revealed a room decorated with the heads of gazelle, antelope, and zebra, a Masai shield, and a rug approximately 5 meters long made from various animal skins.
A hallway contained an altar to the Virgin of Guadalupe and Saint Jude Thaddeus, the saints to whom ‘El Mencho’ reportedly prayed. The wooden ceiling was decorated with chandeliers made of deer antlers, and the terrace featured a pool table and a children’s play area.
Inside cabin number 9, authorities found a black hairdresser’s cape with the image of Oseguera Cervantes and the inscription “El Señor de los Gallos,” as well as several handwritten letters. One letter, in a red envelope, read, “Don’t forget me. I love you very much. Yours forever,” and another stated, “Your güerita forever.” A Ford Bronco Raptor, valued at 2 million pesos, was abandoned at the cabin.
The remaining cabins, named Tulipanes, Margarita, and Mexicana, were used by ‘El Mencho’s’ security team, where tactical military-style clothing was found.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at Tapalpa Country Club?
‘El Mencho’ attempted to escape from cabin number 39 at the Tapalpa Country Club, but his route was blocked by the Mexican Army.
Where else was ‘El Mencho’ hiding?
Cabañas La Loma in Tapalpa served as another hideout for ‘El Mencho’ and his security team.
What was found inside the cabins?
Authorities found luxury furnishings, animal skins, religious altars, handwritten letters, and a high-value vehicle at the Cabañas La Loma complex.
As authorities continue to investigate, it remains to be seen what further information will emerge regarding ‘El Mencho’s’ network and potential future operations.
