A recently released video offers a stark look at the intense firefight that followed the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The footage, circulating on platforms like TikTok, depicts a tactical operation involving Mexican federal forces and highlights the use of advanced technology during the confrontation. The operation, which took place in Tapalpa, Jalisco, culminated in the death of El Mencho, a significant blow to the CJNG.
The video, described as tactical in nature, reveals the intensity of the exchange of gunfire and the deployment of what appear to be sophisticated military technologies. While details regarding the specific technologies used remain limited, the footage underscores the level of preparation and resources employed by the Mexican government in pursuing El Mencho. The operation was the result of months of intelligence gathering, both within Mexico and in coordination with international agencies, according to officials.
Operation Details Released by Sedena
The Mexican Secretariat of National Defense (Sedena) provided a detailed account of the operation on February 23, 2026, during a press conference led by President Claudia Sheinbaum and Secretary of Defense Ricardo Trevilla Trejo. The briefing, part of a larger “Conferencia del Pueblo,” outlined the planning, execution, and aftermath of the military deployment. El Imparcial reports that Sedena explained how they located, surrounded, and ultimately engaged El Mencho in Tapalpa.
According to Sedena, the operation was solely executed by Mexican forces, despite confirming intelligence sharing with the United States. The timeline presented by the government details the months-long intelligence work that led to pinpointing El Mencho’s location. The authorities have not released specific details about the intelligence methods used, citing ongoing investigations and operational security.
Impact and Response in Jalisco
Following the operation, the state of Jalisco was placed under a “Código Rojo” (Red Code), a heightened security alert. El Imparcial reports that classes were suspended, transportation was halted, and commercial activities were temporarily restricted. The city of Puerto Vallarta saw an increased military presence to maintain order and prevent any retaliatory actions by the CJNG. As of February 24, 2026, classes, transportation, and commerce have resumed, though with continued military oversight.
The death of El Mencho represents a major turning point in the fight against drug trafficking in Mexico. The CJNG, under his leadership, had become one of the most powerful and violent cartels in the country, expanding its influence across multiple states and engaging in conflicts with rival organizations. His removal is expected to disrupt the cartel’s operations, though the full extent of the impact remains to be seen.
The Role of the Sedena
The Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional (Sedena), headed by Secretary Ricardo Trevilla Trejo as of 2025, played a central role in the operation. Established on November 8, 1821, Sedena is responsible for the design, planning, execution, and coordination of public policies related to the Mexican Armed Forces, including the Army, Air Force, and National Guard. The agency’s 2025 budget was 158,287,750,650 pesos, employing 314,927 personnel.
The increased involvement of the military in combating drug trafficking has been a contentious issue in Mexico, raising concerns about the militarization of public security. Though, the government maintains that the use of the armed forces is necessary to address the escalating violence and the capabilities of powerful criminal organizations like the CJNG.
The video circulating online provides a rare glimpse into the realities of these operations, showcasing the risks faced by both security forces and criminal organizations. The footage serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in Mexico’s fight against drug trafficking and the lengths to which the government is willing to go to dismantle these criminal networks.
Authorities have not yet announced any further details regarding potential arrests or investigations related to the operation. The Sedena is expected to provide additional updates as the investigation progresses. The focus now shifts to assessing the long-term impact of El Mencho’s death on the CJNG and the broader landscape of organized crime in Mexico.
This is a developing story. We will continue to update this article as more information becomes available.
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