Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was killed Sunday in a military operation in western Mexico, according to reports. For years, Oseguera was among Mexico’s most wanted fugitives, and the United States had offered a $15 million reward for information leading to his arrest.
A Rise Through the Ranks
Born in July 1966 in Michoacán, Oseguera moved to the United States and was convicted in California in 1994 for conspiracy to distribute heroin. After serving three years in prison, he returned to Mexico and briefly worked as a police officer in Jalisco before resuming criminal activities.
According to the US Treasury Department, “El Mencho” was involved in drug trafficking as early as the 1990s. He built up CJNG alongside his brother-in-law, Abigael González Valencia, leader of Los Cuinis, which the US Drug Enforcement Administration identified as the financial and logistical arm of CJNG overseeing its money laundering operations.
Prior to forming CJNG, Oseguera served as chief of hitmen for the Milenio Cartel, affiliated with the Sinaloa Cartel, where he oversaw security, and violence. CJNG emerged in the 2010s from the remnants of the Milenio Cartel, according to the DEA.
Indictments and International Concern
Oseguera faced multiple indictments in the United States, and in 2022, was charged with conspiracy to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl for importation into the US. The DEA has identified CJNG as “a key supplier of illicit fentanyl” to the US, reaping billions in profit and maintaining a presence in over 40 countries.
The operation resulting in Oseguera’s death unfolded in Tapalpa, Jalisco, approximately two hours southwest of Guadalajara. During the operation, four individuals were killed, three were wounded and later died—including Oseguera—and two were arrested. Authorities seized armored vehicles, rocket launchers, and other weapons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was “El Mencho”?
Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes was the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of Mexico’s most violent criminal organizations.
What was the US role in seeking his capture?
The United States offered a $15 million reward for information leading to his arrest and had indicted him multiple times.
What is the CJNG known for?
The CJNG is a key supplier of illicit fentanyl to the US, and has a presence in over 40 countries, reaping billions of dollars in profit from illegal drug manufacturing.
Given the complex dynamics of organized crime, it remains to be seen how the CJNG will respond to this loss of leadership and what impact this will have on the flow of drugs into the United States.
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