A wave of violence has swept across Mexico after the nation’s military killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, the notorious leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), during a high-stakes capture operation.

Known as "El Mencho," Cervantes headed one of the world’s most aggressive criminal organizations, responsible for the large-scale trafficking of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine into the United States. His death occurred during a fierce shootout in his home stronghold of Jalisco.

In the wake of the operation, cartel operatives launched coordinated retaliatory attacks throughout the country. The unrest included Over 250 roadblocks were established across 20 states. Dozens of vehicles were set ablaze to paralyze transit.

Schools in several states suspended classes, while both local and foreign governments issued "shelter-in-place" advisories for their citizens.

President Claudia Sheinbaum has called for national calm, confirming that authorities successfully cleared the majority of the blockades by late Sunday.

In Washington, the White House praised the Mexican Army's decisive action. U.S. officials confirmed that the operation was bolstered by American intelligence support, marking a significant victory in the bilateral effort to dismantle fentanyl supply chains.