24.02.2026 08:22
Following the U.S.-backed operation that resulted in the death of CJNG leader "El Mencho," "El Tuli," who was portrayed as El Mencho's right-hand man and played a key role within the organization, was also killed in a clash in the El Grullo region of Jalisco. A photo related to the operation was published after El Tuli's death. The image shows the lifeless bodies of El Tuli and two of his men lying on the ground by the roadside.
Operations against drug cartels in Mexico are coming one after another. Following the killing of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho," the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), in a U.S.-backed operation, it has been reported that "El Tuli," one of the organization's high-ranking members and considered to be his right-hand man, was also killed by security forces.
IT WAS EXPECTED THAT HE WOULD TAKE EL MENCHO'S PLACE
According to security sources, El Tuli was one of the key figures managing the field operations of CJNG and coordinating the armed structure. After El Mencho's death, he was among the names that emerged in the potential leadership vacuum within the organization.
EL TULI HAS BEEN NEUTRALIZED
In an operation carried out in the El Grullo region of Jalisco state, a clash broke out between security forces and cartel members. Authorities announced that El Tuli was neutralized after the clash and that a large number of long-barreled weapons and ammunition were seized in the area.
PHOTO RELEASED
Following the killing of El Tuli, a photo related to the operation was also released. The image shows the lifeless bodies of El Tuli and two of his men lying on the ground by the roadside.
THE COUNTRY HAS TURNED INTO A SEA OF BLOOD
After the news of El Mencho's death was announced, violent incidents erupted across Mexico. CJNG members blocked roads in many states, set vehicles on fire, and carried out attacks targeting public order. Authorities reported that at least 55 people lost their lives in clashes between security forces and cartel members. Barricades were set up on highways in 11 states, and numerous vehicles and businesses were set on fire.
While mass events were canceled in some areas, disruptions occurred in flights. Approximately 1,000 tourists were stranded inside the zoo in Guadalajara for security reasons. Security measures in the region were increased, and it was reported that control was gradually established on major transportation routes.
THE FUTURE OF CJNG IS UNCERTAIN
Experts believe that El Mencho's death could trigger a power struggle within CJNG and that internal conflicts within the cartel may increase. The Mexican government argued that the operation was an important step in the fight against organized crime. However, the recent wave of violence revealed that the cartel still possesses a strong and organized structure.