23.02.2026 09:21
The cartel leader 'El Mencho', Mexico's most wanted criminal, has been killed. Following the death of the cartel leader, reports of violence and conflict began to emerge from many cities in Mexico. Journalist Cüneyt Özdemir, who was on vacation in Mexico, became trapped in his hotel. Özdemir shared on his social media account that shops and cars were being burned.
A major blow was dealt to one of Mexico's largest criminal organizations, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The CJNG leader, Nemesio Oseguera, known as "El Mencho," was killed in a military operation. Mexican media reported that El Mencho was neutralized during an operation in the city of Tapalpa, located in Jalisco state.
VEHICLES SET ON FIRE IN MANY CITIES
After the operation, cartel members set numerous vehicles on fire in Jalisco and other states, clashing with security forces. Gunfire was also reported at Guadalajara International Airport. Local sources reported that CJNG members stormed the airport and engaged in a confrontation with security forces. Videos shared on social media from the airport showed many people fleeing in panic.
IMAGES REMINISCENT OF CIVIL WAR
Jalisco State Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro urged the public to stay home "until the situation is under control," announcing that public transportation services had been suspended and warning against traveling on state roads due to "violent incidents" that spread across at least five regions of the country.
The U.S. had placed a $15 million bounty on El Mencho.
CÜNEYT ÖZDEMİR REPORTED THE LATEST SITUATION
While clashes between the cartel and the army continued in Mexico, Cüneyt Özdemir, who went to Mexico for vacation, found himself stranded in a hotel. Özdemir shared updates about the situation in the country.
In a post on his social media account, Özdemir stated, "A very strange night in Mexico... For example, over 1,200 people are stranded at the Guadalajara Zoo. And they are spending the night in the zoo's parking lot! As midnight approaches in Mexico, the protests continue. Everyone is adhering to the curfew. Local shops are being set on fire. The only consolation so far is that hotels where tourists are staying have not been targeted. So let's say the cartel hasn't interfered... For now!"