On 22 February 2026, Mexican military forces killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, the notorious drug lord who led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), in a security operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, Mexico.
With key United States intelligence support and a $15 million (£11.09 million) reward on offer for information leading to his capture, the takedown of one of the world's most wanted criminals marked a major moment in the long-running war against transnational drug trafficking and organised crime.
Operation Details and Aftermath
Mexican Army special forces, backed by the National Guard and supported by complementary intelligence from US agencies, launched the raid in the mountainous town of Tapalpa, which has been long regarded as a CJNG stronghold.
During the operation, El Mencho was wounded in the ensuing firefight and later died from his injuries while being evacuated by helicopter to a medical facility. Six other cartel members were also killed and two arrested.
The Talpalpa raid triggered violent reprisals by suspected cartel supporters across several states, with reports of roadblocks and burning vehicles in Jalisco, Guanajuato and neighbouring regions as authorities worked to reassert control.
Who Was El Mencho?
El Mencho, about 60 years old at the time of his death, headed the CJNG, which had grown into one of Mexico's most powerful and violent criminal groups. The cartel was heavily involved in the production and distribution of fentanyl and other illicit drugs into the United States and beyond, making him a top priority target for both Mexican and US law enforcement. El Mencho died on Sunday after being seriously injured in clashes with security forces, as reported by the BBC.
He had been indicted in the United States on multiple drug trafficking charges and was one of the most sought-after fugitives, with a longstanding $15 million (£11.09 million) reward offered by the US State Department's Narcotics Rewards Programme for information leading to his arrest or conviction.
Understanding the $15 Million Reward
The US State Department's Narcotics Rewards Programme is designed to incentivise individuals to provide actionable information that leads to the arrest or conviction of major international narcotics traffickers whose activities directly affect the United States.
Only the Secretary of State, with concurrence from the US Attorney General when federal jurisdiction is involved, can authorise and pay out rewards, and the process typically involves verification of the provided intelligence before any payment is made.
In the case of El Mencho, the $15 million (£11.09 million) reward applied to information that could have helped locate or capture him. With his death now confirmed, it remains to be determined who may be eligible to claim the reward, and whether that payment will proceed.
Typically, potential claimants include confidential informants or individuals with reliable, verifiable intelligence, but the US Government maintains strict confidentiality and security measures to protect sources.
US Role and Intelligence Support
While Mexican forces carried out the raid, US involvement played a significant role behind the scenes. A joint interagency task force focused on counter‑cartel operations provided critical intelligence that helped locate El Mencho.
US defence officials said the information came from law enforcement and military sources, highlighting the growing bilateral cooperation in tackling cross‑border drug trafficking. US authorities acknowledged the collaboration, commending the Mexican military's execution of the operation and emphasising the importance of coordinated efforts against organised crime affecting both nations.
Impact on CJNG and Regional Security
The death of El Mencho leaves a leadership vacuum within the CJNG that could affect the cartel's operations, but analysts warn that such groups often adapt and could trigger further violence or internal power struggles. Mexican authorities have increased security measures in response to the uprisings following the raid, with the aim of restoring order and preventing further destabilisation.
As the situation continues to unfold, questions about the payout of the reward and the future of organised crime in the region remain central to discussions in both Mexico and the United States.
