Gunmen linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel targeted roads, businesses, and security forces, triggering widespread panic and disrupting daily life in several states.
BY PC Bureau
February 23, 2026: Mexico was plunged into widespread violence and chaos within hours of the killing of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, alias “El Mencho,” as gunmen linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) launched a coordinated revenge campaign across multiple states, torching vehicles, blocking highways, and attacking security installations.
Authorities reported dozens of incidents across Jalisco, Guanajuato, Colima, Michoacán, and other regions, where cartel operatives set fire to cars, trucks, supermarkets, and banks in an apparent show of strength following the death of their leader. The violence paralyzed transport routes, disrupted public services, and forced residents and tourists to remain indoors.
The retaliatory attacks followed a major Mexican military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, carried out with U.S. intelligence support, in which Oseguera was fatally wounded during a firefight. His death marked one of the most significant blows to organized crime in Mexico in recent years.
Roads Blocked, Cities Paralyzed
Cartel gunmen erected burning barricades on highways and major roads, halting traffic and isolating cities. In Guanajuato alone, authorities reported at least 55 separate incidents across 23 municipalities. Security forces deployed armored vehicles and troops to restore order.
In Jalisco, suspected cartel fighters attacked a National Guard base, while public transportation was suspended in several areas. Videos circulating on social media showed smoke rising from burning vehicles and armed men controlling traffic routes.
Residents described widespread fear. In Guadalajara, locals relied on messaging groups to track safe routes and avoid danger zones, while businesses shut their doors amid uncertainty.
El Mencho” has been killed in a military raid, triggering total chaos across Mexico. 🇲🇽 Over 250 burning roadblocks reported as the #CJNG retaliates nationwide Stay safe and shelter in place if you are in the affected zones.#CJNJ #CJNG #elmencho #Guerrero #México #mexico #guerre pic.twitter.com/AVJD5PS803
— Laiba Zahra (@LaibaZahra13993) February 23, 2026
Flights Cancelled, Tourists Stranded
Air travel was disrupted as airlines including Air Canada, United Airlines, and Aeromexico canceled flights to Puerto Vallarta, a major tourist destination in Jalisco. Tourists filmed massive plumes of smoke rising near coastal areas, underscoring the scale of the unrest.
Authorities urged residents and visitors to shelter in place as security forces moved to contain the violence.
READ: US Intelligence Backed Mexico Op That Killed El Mencho, $15M Bounty Target
Cartel Power Struggle Feared
Security sources said the attacks were carried out in retaliation for El Mencho’s killing and warned that internal cartel conflicts could follow as rival factions compete to fill the power vacuum.
“The attacks were carried out in revenge for the leader’s death,” a cartel member told Reuters anonymously, warning that internal violence could escalate as groups maneuver for control.
Mexico has witnessed similar waves of violence following the arrests or killings of major cartel leaders, including operations targeting figures linked to the Sinaloa Cartel.
🚨 MEXICO ERUPTS 🚨
Reports say CJNG kingpin “El Mencho” is dead and within minutes, Jalisco exploded into chaos. Banks burning. Highways blocked. Airports in panic. Smoke choking the skyline.
This isn’t just a cartel boss this was a man who ran a private army, shot down… pic.twitter.com/Fvw37CwOKQ
— War Monitoring (@WarMonitoring_x) February 23, 2026
Government Urges Calm Amid Growing Tensions
President Claudia Sheinbaum urged citizens to remain calm, stating that federal and state authorities were working together to stabilize affected areas. She emphasized that normal life continued in most parts of the country despite the unrest.
Meanwhile, the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump praised the operation as a major victory against narcotics trafficking, though the immediate aftermath underscored the enduring strength and reach of cartel networks.
El Mencho’s death may mark the end of one of the most feared cartel leaders of the modern era, but the violent backlash highlights the fragile security situation in Mexico and the risks of dismantling powerful criminal empires.
