Mexico sends thousands of soldiers to stop violence after death of drug lord | BBC News

Key Concepts

• El Mencho (Nessio Oera): Leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), Mexico’s most wanted drug lord.
• Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG): The most powerful drug cartel in Mexico, involved in widespread violence and drug trafficking.
• Fentanyl Trafficking: A major source of income for CJNG, generating billions of dollars annually.
• Operation to Arrest El Mencho: A successful operation by Mexican special forces resulting in El Mencho’s death, triggering widespread cartel violence.
• FIFA World Cup 2026: The upcoming international football tournament hosted partially in Mexico, raising security concerns.

Deployment of Troops and Initial Violence

Following the death of Nessio Oera, known as El Mencho, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), Mexico has deployed thousands of troops across 20 of its 32 states to restore order. The operation to arrest El Mencho was carried out by Mexican special forces. Immediately after his death, CJNG “foot soldiers” initiated a wave of violence, including burning vehicles and blocking roads, creating widespread fear. This unrest was reported across a significant portion of the country, demonstrating the cartel’s extensive reach.

El Mencho and the CJNG

El Mencho rose from a petty drug dealer to become Mexico’s most wanted man, with a $15 million reward offered for information leading to his capture. The CJNG, under his leadership, is described as the most powerful drug gang in Mexico, operating throughout the country. The cartel’s primary source of income is fentanyl trafficking, generating billions of dollars annually. This financial power contributes to their ability to exert control and inflict violence.

Government Response and International Reaction

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum acknowledged the violence but asserted that normality is being restored. She emphasized the coordination between the government, armed forces, and security cabinet, stating, “Today there is more calm and there is government, there is armed forces, there is a security cabinet and there is a lot of coordination. So you can rest assured that peace, security and normality in the country are being safeguarded.” The White House praised the operation and highlighted the role of US intelligence in El Mencho’s capture, framing it as a victory for both countries. The operation is seen as potentially staving off unilateral US military action within Mexico.

Security Concerns Regarding the FIFA World Cup

The violence, particularly in Guadalajara – a host city for the FIFA World Cup in 2026 – raises significant security concerns. Travelers have been stranded in airports due to the unrest. While the Mexican government believes eliminating El Mencho will ultimately improve safety, the cartel’s continued power and potential for retaliation remain a serious threat. The government is actively attempting to project an image of calm and normality, especially in anticipation of the World Cup.

Cartel Capabilities and Future Outlook

Despite El Mencho’s death, residents fear the CJNG remains powerful, angry, and capable of further violence and revenge against authorities. The cartel continues to control vast territories within Mexico. The situation highlights the ongoing challenge of combating drug cartels and maintaining security in the country.

US Interests and Political Context

During his second term, former President Trump prioritized action from Mexico on two key issues: immigration and fentanyl. The killing of El Mencho is presented as part of Mexico’s response to these concerns. The violence underscores the complex relationship between the two countries and the ongoing struggle against drug trafficking.

Rita’s Report Conclusion

The reporter, Rita, concludes that the past few days have been harrowing for Mexicans, particularly those in the most affected cities. The government’s efforts to project calm are understandable given the upcoming World Cup, but the underlying fear of continued cartel activity remains prevalent among the population.