Killing of Cartel Boss 'El Mencho' Triggers Nationwide Violence, Leaving Dozens Dead

Mexican authorities said they were restoring order after an outbreak of violence that left highways blocked, buildings burned and at least 62 people dead. The unrest followed a military raid that killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel; officials said they located him by tracking a romantic partner and carried out the operation early Sunday.

The cartel’s followers struck back across at least a dozen states, attacking security forces, blocking roads and setting fire to supermarkets, banks and vehicles. Airlines and bus companies canceled routes, leaving travelers — including thousands of tourists in beach destinations like Puerto Vallarta — told to shelter in place as plumes of smoke rose from burning parts of cities.

Authorities reported arresting 70 people and killing 34 suspected cartel members during the violence; 25 members of the national guard were killed and one civilian died, local media reported that the civilian was a pregnant woman.

Mexico, Puerto Vallarta

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