On Saturday, January 4, various national and international media outlets reported that Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), is presumed dead. These reports are based on alleged statements from the United States Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), as cited by Mexican journalist Ricardo Ravelo.
Despite these claims, a check of the DEA’s website by DEBATE shows that “El Mencho,” also referred to as “Lord of the Roosters” in Michoacán and Jalisco, remains listed in the fugitives section.
This is not the first time rumors of El Mencho’s death have circulated. Previous reports suggested he died between 2019 and 2020 due to health issues. However, the Mexican government has not confirmed these reports, possibly to avoid potential violence.
El Mencho is believed to have suffered from kidney disease, requiring specialized medical treatment. According to Ravelo, his death is a fact, but the location of his remains is unknown. The DEA has not officially announced his death.
The DEA continues to focus on the CJNG due to its rapid growth and consolidation over the past four presidential terms in Mexico. The cartel is considered one of the most dangerous in the world. An anonymous DEA source, quoted by Ravelo, noted that while it was believed President López Obrador was favoring the Sinaloa cartel, it was actually the CJNG that received significant support.
Source: Debate
