A wave of violence swept across at least 20 Mexican states on Sunday after the reported death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, better known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).

El Mencho, long considered one of Mexico’s most powerful and wanted drug lords, was captured by Mexican special forces during an operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco. He was seriously injured in a firefight between his security detail and the military and later died while being transported to Mexico City. At least six of his bodyguards were killed in the raid, while three members of the Mexican military were injured.

Following news of his death, cartel members retaliated by setting fire to vehicles, businesses, and banks, and by erecting burning roadblocks across key highways. In some areas, spikes and nails were scattered across roads to disrupt traffic, while buses and other vehicles were hijacked and torched.

(photo by Reuters)

Popular tourist destination Puerto Vallarta was among the affected areas, with plumes of black smoke seen rising over several neighbourhoods. Flights were cancelled, and hundreds of travellers were stranded at the airport before being escorted to safety under heavy police guard. In Guadalajara, panic broke out at the airport after reports of gunfire nearby, though authorities later dismissed claims that shots were fired inside the terminal.

More than 250 road blockades were reported nationwide, though security officials say most have since been cleared. Authorities confirmed that at least 25 people have been arrested in connection with the unrest.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum urged citizens to remain calm, stating that most parts of the country were operating normally. She praised the security forces for the operation, which reportedly included support from the National Guard and Air Force, as well as intelligence assistance from the United States.

The US had previously offered a $15 million reward for information leading to El Mencho’s capture, citing his role as a major trafficker of fentanyl into the United States.

Security remains tight in the cartel’s stronghold of Jalisco, as authorities work to prevent further retaliatory attacks.