Close Call for ‘El Mencho’: Operation Leaves Cartel Leader Wounded

Mexican security forces launched a major operation in the early hours of Tuesday, targeting ‘El Mencho’ in the state of Jalisco. Initial reports indicate a fierce firefight erupted as authorities attempted to apprehend the cartel leader. While officials have confirmed ‘El Mencho’ was wounded during the operation, he managed to evade capture, escaping into the surrounding woodlands. The operation, involving thousands of soldiers and federal agents, resulted in at least 74 arrests and a significant seizure of weapons and vehicles. Corriere della Sera provides initial coverage of the events.

The escape reportedly involved a daring flight through the woods, with ‘El Mencho’ sustaining injuries during the pursuit. The Republic details the dramatic escape, including reports of a rocket launcher being used to cover the retreat.

Who is ‘El Mencho’ and the CJNG?

Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as ‘El Mencho,’ is the current leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The CJNG has rapidly risen to become one of the most powerful and violent criminal organizations in Mexico, challenging the dominance of traditional cartels like the Sinaloa Cartel. The cartel’s power stems from its aggressive expansion, sophisticated tactics, and control over key trafficking routes. According to Saviano, the CJNG boasts a staggering turnover of $50 billion, effectively operating as a state within a state.

The CJNG is known for its brazen displays of force, often engaging in public confrontations with rival cartels and security forces. Its activities include drug trafficking, extortion, kidnapping, and human trafficking. The cartel’s influence extends beyond Mexico, with operations in the United States, Europe, and Asia. The recent operation against ‘El Mencho’ underscores the Mexican government’s ongoing efforts to dismantle the CJNG and restore order in the region.

But what does the future hold for the CJNG? As The Manifesto points out, the capture or death of a cartel leader often leads to a power vacuum and increased violence as rival factions vie for control. Will the CJNG fracture, or will a new leader emerge to consolidate its power?

Do you think the Mexican government’s strategy of targeting cartel leaders is effective, or does it simply exacerbate the problem? What alternative approaches could be considered?

The Mysterious Role of ‘Guadalupe’

Reports surrounding the operation have highlighted the involvement of a woman, identified in some sources as Guadalupe, who appears to have been instrumental in providing intelligence that led authorities to ‘El Mencho’s’ location. The exact nature of her relationship with the cartel leader remains unclear, with speculation ranging from a former lover to an informant. Corriere della Sera is following the story closely, attempting to ascertain her identity and motivations.

The use of informants and the exploitation of internal conflicts within cartels are common tactics employed by law enforcement agencies in Mexico. However, these strategies also carry significant risks, as informants often face retaliation from cartel members. The case of ‘Guadalupe’ highlights the dangerous and complex nature of intelligence gathering in the fight against organized crime.

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