Mexico Maintains Heavy Security as ‘El Mencho’ is Laid to Rest
Guadalajara, Mexico – Mexican security forces are maintaining a significant presence around a funeral home in Guadalajara where the body of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” is being mourned. Dozens of military vehicles and personnel from the army and National Guard are securing the site, with an overhead military helicopter providing additional surveillance, according to reports.
The remains of the longtime leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) were transferred to his family in Mexico City on Saturday, following his death during a military operation in Jalisco state on February 22, 2026. The burial is scheduled for Monday.
Authorities have bolstered security to deter rival cartels from attempting to disrupt the proceedings, a federal source told several media outlets gathered outside the funeral home.
The CJNG responded violently to the news of El Mencho’s death, setting businesses ablaze and establishing roadblocks in 20 of Mexico’s 32 states. The ensuing clashes between security forces and cartel members resulted in over 70 fatalities.
Oseguera Cervantes was considered the most wanted drug trafficker by the United States government, which had offered a $15 million reward for information leading to his capture. His death marks a significant blow to one of Mexico’s most powerful criminal organizations, though the long-term impact on the country’s drug landscape remains to be seen.
