Rocket Launchers Seized as El Mencho Falls in High-Stakes Raid That Shakes Mexico

 

In a dramatic and decisive operation, Mexican Special Forces have dealt a historic blow to organized crime, seizing rocket launchers and heavy military-grade weapons during a deadly raid targeting cartel boss Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho.”

The operation unfolded Sunday in the western state of Jalisco, where security forces engaged in an intense firefight that left the 59-year-old cartel leader mortally wounded, according to Mexico’s Defense Ministry. Oseguera was the powerful head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of the most formidable drug trafficking organizations operating in Mexico and beyond.

Authorities say the scale of weaponry recovered during the raid was staggering. Among the items seized were rocket launchers capable of downing aircraft, armored vehicles, and high-caliber firearms more commonly seen on battlefields than city streets. The discovery highlights longstanding concerns from both Mexican and U.S. officials that CJNG had evolved into a paramilitary-style organization with advanced capabilities.

Mexican drug lord ‘El Mencho,’ leader of Jalisco’s New Generation Cartel, has been killed in a military operation.

Civilians are being advised to stay indoors amid cartel retaliation and street violence. pic.twitter.com/NFzraUlSDN

— Pop Base (@PopBase) February 22, 2026

The coordinated operation was carried out by Mexican Special Forces with support from the Air Force and National Guard rapid-response units. Officials confirmed the mission was supported by U.S. intelligence gathered by the Joint Interagency Task Force-Counter Cartel, a U.S.-military-led initiative launched last year to dismantle cross-border cartel networks.

Oseguera had long been one of America’s most wanted figures. The Drug Enforcement Administration had offered a $15 million reward for information leading to his capture. During the Trump administration, CJNG was formally designated a foreign terrorist organization, reflecting its growing firepower and influence.

While authorities are calling the raid a significant victory, its aftermath was swift and chaotic. In the resort city of Puerto Vallarta, tourists described scenes resembling a “war zone” as smoke rose from torched vehicles and gunmen reportedly blocked major roads. Flights were temporarily suspended by major airlines, leaving travelers stranded as security forces worked to regain control.

By Sunday evening, reports indicated at least 26 fatalities linked to the unrest, including members of federal and state security forces. Multiple suspects were killed, and dozens were arrested in connection with retaliatory violence and looting.

U.S. officials quickly responded to the development. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau described the outcome as a “major step forward” for regional security cooperation. Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt commended Mexican authorities for their execution of the operation, emphasizing ongoing bilateral efforts to combat fentanyl trafficking.

CJNG, founded by Oseguera after splitting from the Sinaloa Cartel, grew into a sprawling criminal enterprise involved in drug trafficking, fuel theft, extortion, human smuggling, and financial crimes. U.S. government estimates have placed its membership in the tens of thousands. The group has also been linked to high-profile attacks, including the 2015 downing of a Mexican military helicopter using a rocket-propelled grenade.

Security analysts now warn that the cartel’s future remains uncertain. Leadership struggles could trigger internal fractures and extended periods of violence as factions compete for control. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has urged calm, stating that most regions are operating normally while reaffirming Mexico’s commitment to working with the United States — but with full respect for national sovereignty.

For many in Mexico and across the border, the fall of El Mencho marks a turning point in the ongoing battle against powerful criminal networks. Yet the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether this landmark operation weakens cartel influence — or sparks a new chapter of instability.

Authorities on both sides of the border say one thing is clear: cooperation is intensifying, and the fight against narcotrafficking is far from over.