Mexico sends 9,500 troops after capture and death of CJNG leader El Mencho
Feb 24th 2026
Federal forces were deployed after Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, died in custody following his capture, as cartel-linked attacks spread across many states.
- About 9,500 troops have been deployed nationwide, with an extra 2,500 sent to western Mexico on Monday.
- El Mencho, head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, was captured in Tapalpa after forces tracked a romantic partner and died while being transported to Mexico City.
- Cartel members launched attacks in at least 20 states, blocking roads with spikes, burning vehicles and setting fire to businesses.
- Officials reported at least 25 National Guard members killed in Jalisco since the unrest began, and about 30 cartel members were also reported killed in related violence.
- Six of El Mencho's security guards were killed and three Mexican soldiers were injured during the operation that led to his capture.
- Mexico says US intelligence helped locate El Mencho but no US forces were involved, and the US had offered a $15 million reward for information.