Mexico on Edge: President Appeals for Peace After El Mencho’s Death Sparks Cartel War

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Sunday appealed for calm and national unity after reports that federal forces killed cartel figure Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as El Mencho.

Authorities said the security operation sparked unrest in several areas, with reports of roadblocks, flight disruptions and isolated incidents of violence.

In a late-night statement addressing the evolving situation, Sheinbaum stressed that security agencies were working in close coordination and urged citizens to stay informed and remain composed.

“The Secretariat of National Defense reported on the operation carried out this morning by federal forces, which resulted in various blockades and other reactions,” she said.

She added that there was strong collaboration among federal and state authorities. “There is absolute coordination with the governments of all states; we must remain informed and calm. The social media accounts of the Security Cabinet provide permanent updates,” the president noted.

Despite the disturbances in certain locations, Sheinbaum said most parts of the country were operating normally. “In the vast majority of the national territory, activities are proceeding with complete normality,” she stated.

She also commended the country’s security institutions for their efforts. “My recognition to the Mexican Army, National Guard, Armed Forces, and Security Cabinet. We work every day for peace, security, justice, and the well-being of Mexico,” she said.

The statement followed heightened security monitoring after reports that El Mencho, the alleged head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, had been killed. The group is regarded as one of the most influential drug trafficking organisations in the region.

In the aftermath of the reported operation, retaliatory unrest was said to have disrupted transportation networks, led to the suspension of sporting events — including fixtures in Mexico’s top-flight football league — and prompted flight cancellations at Guadalajara International Airport and Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport.

Amid the tensions, the governments of the United States and Canada issued travel advisories advising their citizens in affected areas to shelter in place due to roadblocks, security operations and criminal activity, underscoring the broader regional impact of cartel-related violence.