The Mexican state of Jalisco is experiencing a fragile return to daily routines following a devastating wave of cartel violence that erupted over the weekend. This surge in retaliatory attacks came immediately after authorities confirmed the death of Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera, the formidable leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), during a military confrontation on Sunday.
In Guadalajara, the state capital, residents tentatively emerged from their homes on Monday after being confined indoors amidst widespread terror. The city presented a scene of cautious movement rather than normalcy—schools remained shuttered, many businesses kept doors locked, and public transportation operated with notably few passengers. Those venturing outside primarily sought essential supplies, forming extensive queues at supermarkets amid concerns that cartel members might resume road blockades and arson attacks against vehicles and commercial establishments.
Matias Mora, a local taxi driver, described the palpable fear that kept him indoors after witnessing a pharmacy being burned down. Similarly, retiree Juan Soler reported critical shortages and enormous lines at the few open stores, while Maria de Jesus Gonzalez recounted being “locked inside, terrified” before joining the supermarket queue. The demand was so intense that shopping carts ran out, forcing some customers to use laundry baskets for their groceries.
While authorities worked to clear the streets of charred, twisted vehicle wreckage, the violence persisted in certain areas. On the road to Tapalpa, where Oseguera made his final stand, cartel members continued to maintain roadblocks despite official claims that the worst violence had subsided nationwide.
The government deployed approximately 10,000 troops across 20 of Mexico’s 32 states to restore order, including in the international tourist destination Puerto Vallarta. Oseguera, 59, represented the last of Mexico’s old-guard drug lords operating with the brutal tactics reminiscent of imprisoned kingpins like “El Chapo” Guzman. As a founding member of CJNG since 2009, he built one of Mexico’s most violent criminal organizations.
Official reports indicate the raid that killed Oseguera and subsequent clashes resulted in at least 27 security force casualties, 46 suspected cartel members dead, and one civilian fatality. While his elimination marks a significant victory for Mexican authorities, security experts warn that the absence of clear succession within CJNG could create a dangerous power vacuum, potentially triggering further violent internal conflicts.