Additional Coverage:
- Photos show burned-out cars, empty streets, and airport chaos in Mexico after a major cartel leader was killed (businessinsider.com)
Chaos Erupts Across Mexico After Cartel Kingpin “El Mencho” Killed
Mexico was rocked by widespread violence on Sunday following a security operation that resulted in the death of notorious drug lord Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes.
Members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), the powerful criminal organization led by “El Mencho,” retaliated fiercely, setting fire to businesses and vehicles across the country. The U.S. government issued a stark warning to its citizens in Mexico, advising them to shelter in place as the situation unfolded.
The most intense outbreaks of violence were concentrated in Jalisco, the cartel’s stronghold and the state where “El Mencho” was reportedly killed. However, the Mexican Security Cabinet reported establishing over 250 roadblocks across 20 Mexican states on Sunday, highlighting the nationwide impact of the unrest.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed the nation on Monday morning, stating that the situation had de-escalated and all roadblocks had been cleared. Despite the de-escalation, the violence caused significant travel disruptions, leading to the cancellation of most domestic and international flights in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta on Sunday.
The aftermath painted a grim picture:
- Puerto Vallarta: Vehicles, including buses, were set ablaze, sending plumes of smoke into the sky and creating an unsettling backdrop for tourists. Firefighters worked tirelessly to extinguish the flames, while onlookers watched columns of smoke rise from burning vehicles.
- Guadalajara International Airport: Passengers faced long lines and crowded halls as flight suspensions and a lack of transport left many stranded. Military personnel were deployed to stand guard outside the airport amidst the chaos.
- Zapopan, Jalisco: A burned-out store served as a stark reminder of the retaliatory attacks. The local government declared a “code red” and suspended public transport, leaving streets eerily empty.
- Jalisco Highways: Cars and trucks were torched on highways near Acatlan de Juarez, allegedly by organized crime groups responding to the military operation.
- Mexico City: The Mexican National Guard was stationed outside the Attorney General’s office, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
- Acapulco: Even this popular tourist destination saw its share of disruption, with boat services canceled and Mexican soldiers patrolling the streets past torched buses.
The events of Sunday serve as a stark reminder of the volatile landscape in Mexico and the far-reaching consequences of operations targeting high-profile cartel leaders.