Operation Against CJNG Leader El Mencho Sparks 252 Roadblocks Across 20 Mexican States

Mexico City — A major federal operation targeting Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) known as “El Mencho,” has triggered a wave of coordinated roadblocks, vehicle burnings, and attacks on businesses across at least 20 Mexican states, authorities announced.

The high-impact operation in the mountainous region of Tapalpa, Jalisco, aimed to neutralize the criminal leader, who is considered a primary source of violence and synthetic drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl, into the United States. The action prompted an immediate and coordinated reaction from CJNG cells nationwide.

Chain Reaction: 252 Blockades

According to a consolidated national operational report, authorities recorded 252 roadblocks across 20 states. By 8:00 p.m., approximately 90% (229) had been cleared, with 23 blockades and four partial road closures remaining active. The violent actions included burning vehicles, attacks on gas stations, and disturbances on key roadways, destabilizing various highway zones across the country.

Jalisco, Epicenter of Violence

Jalisco saw the highest number of incidents, with 65 blockades on federal and state highways and key urban roads. Additional focused events were reported in Aguascalientes, Baja California, Chiapas, Colima, State of Mexico, Guanajuato, Guerrero, Hidalgo, Michoacán, Nayarit, Nuevo León, Oaxaca, Puebla, Quintana Roo, Sinaloa, Tabasco, Tamaulipas, Veracruz, and Zacatecas. Local authorities addressed these blockades without reporting major additional incidents.

Federal Deployment

Immediate response protocols were activated with a deployment led by the Mexican Army and the National Guard, in coordination with institutions from the Security Cabinet and state and municipal corporations. The Mexican government stated that federal forces maintain operational control at the remaining points and are working continuously to clear all affected roadways. Officials urged the public to remain calm, avoid spreading false information, and consult only official sources.