Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as "El Mencho," the notorious leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), is reported to have died from kidney disease, according to U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents. This alarming news, which has surfaced as of January 4, 2025, raises significant concerns about the stability of the cartel and the potential for increased violence within Mexico.
According to reports from El Blog del Narco, agents from the DEA have confirmed El Mencho's death due to natural causes linked to his health complications, yet these revelations have not been made public by Mexican officials. The Mexican authorities are keeping such information under wraps, likely to prevent any violent backlash from factions within the cartel or rival gangs.
Reports of El Mencho's declining health have been circulating since 2019, leading to heightened speculation about his condition and the future of the CJNG. Ricardo Ravelo, a notable journalist, has highlighted testimonies from DEA agents who have maintained close surveillance of the cartel's activities, reporting, "He could have died as complications from kidney disease. He had received medical care at private clinics, avoiding detection by authorities as he faced severe health challenges. But now, the cartel finds itself embroiled in chaos following his passing."
The DEA’s findings suggest El Mencho's death may leave the CJNG vulnerable to infighting as different factions vie for control amid leadership uncertainty. His offspring and other associates have reportedly assumed leadership roles, yet their decision-making has led to rising violence and reckless actions against both rivals and innocent civilians. This internal strife indicates the potential for escalated conflicts within the cartel and competing gangs, as past rivalries resurface.
A recurring theme contained within the discussions of the cartel's future revolves around the vacuum of power created by El Mencho’s death. The agent stated, "This void could easily ignite conflict. Without strong governance, factions are inclined to act on their own interests… expect retaliation events from either side attempting to establish dominance."
Indeed, there is considerable apprehension surrounding the fallout from this leadership shift. The DEA has actively monitored the CJNG's movements, observing their operations across various drug-trafficking routes. The organization has grown significantly during recent years, enhancing their infrastructure and extending their reach amid weakened government responses to drug-related violence.
While the public grapples with this unprecedented power shift within the cartel, the Mexican government has stayed tight-lipped about El Mencho's death. Accusations arise not only about the cartel's practices but also about the government’s motives. The fear is palpable, as one DEA source confessed to Ravelo, "It is understood if the Mexican authorities reveal El Mencho’s death, it could lead to bloodshed, something they are trying desperately to avoid, particularly with regards to innocent lives."
Experts shared their insights, noting how El Mencho’s alleged demise could fundamentally reshape the dynamics of drug warfare within Mexico. "While we assume the leadership may have slip-ups and splintering, the foundation of CJNG remains strong, and they possess the resources to prevail," stated one unnamed experienced agent, providing perspective on the group's resilience.
The CJNG has developed a reputation for its calculated brutality and effectiveness over the years, operating not only as drug traffickers but also as extortionists, kidnappers, and murderers across Mexico. Despite much of this nefarious activity being tied to El Mencho, his death doesn’t signify the end of the cartel’s influence. Historical patterns show such groups often adapt and evolve post-leadership transitions.
Pundits are left pondering the future of the CJNG, contemplating whether it will continue to thrive or succumb to internal conflict fueled by the absence of its powerful leader. Observations from agents and experts reflect mixed predictions, with some fearing instability, and others expressing confidence concerning the CJNG maintaining its operational capabilities.
While eyes remain fixated on the impending conflict and turmoil, one thing is certain: the turbulence caused by El Mencho’s alleged death poses more questions than answers. Whether the CJNG can sustain its power without its stark figurehead remains to be seen. The cartel's ability to adapt to leadership changes and internal challenges will be closely monitored by authorities on both sides of the border, particularly as tensions continue to rise.