The notorious cartel leader “El Mencho” killed in Mexico

One of the world’s most wanted drug traffickers, widely known as “El Mencho” has been killed in a major military operation in western Mexico.

According to reports, Mexican security forces carried out the operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, after intelligence informed the leader of Jalisco New Generation Cartel was present in the area. 

Authorities claimed El Mencho was wounded during a confrontation and later died while being transported for medical treatment.

The killing of the notorious cartel leader is being described as one of the most significant blows against organized crime in recent years. 

El Mencho reportedly led one of Mexico’s most violent cartels, had a $15 million U.S. reward on his head and was accused of trafficking fentanyl, cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine.

It has been reported that within hours of news of his death, suspected cartel gunmen launched coordinated retaliations, torching vehicles, blocking highways and setting businesses on fire in multiple regions.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum praised the operation but urged for peace in the region. 

Moreover, U.S. officials confirmed Washington provided intelligence support and called the killing a major step in combating cross-border drug trafficking.

The CJNG, founded around 2009, is considered one of Mexico’s most powerful criminal organizations and has been notorious for extreme violence, including attacks on security forces and drone-based attacks.