Feed MRSS-S jalisco_a, english.elpais.com en-us https://english.elpais.com Tue, 09 Jun 2026 11:38:30 GMT https://english.elpais.com/usa/2026-06-09/migrants-at-the-mercy-of-gangs-ice-detainees-forced-to-live-alongside-organized-crime.html Tue, 09 Jun 2026 11:38:30 GMT https://english.elpais.com/usa/2026-06-09/migrants-at-the-mercy-of-gangs-ice-detainees-forced-to-live-alongside-organized-crime.html Isaías Alvarado Los Paisas, Sureños, and Norteños are prison gangs that also operate inside the agency’s facilities alongside vulnerable migrants Los Paisas, Sureños, and Norteños are prison gangs that also operate inside the agency’s facilities alongside vulnerable migrants ICE California Sinaloa Jalisco Guanajuato Texas LUCY NICHOLSON (REUTERS) ICE detainees Detainees at a migrant center in California, in 2023. Detainees at a migrant center in California, in 2023. <p>Esteban had never heard of the prison gang Los Paisas until he was held at the <a href="https://english.elpais.com/usa/2024-07-19/detainees-at-california-ice-center-on-hunger-strike-for-a-week-over-living-and-work-conditions.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/usa/2024-07-19/detainees-at-california-ice-center-on-hunger-strike-for-a-week-over-living-and-work-conditions.html">Adelanto immigrant detention center</a> in California. As soon as he passed through the bars of his housing unit, other detainees made it clear he had to choose: join them or join another group made up of Russians, Indians, Chinese, and Armenians. He understood that doing neither would leave him defenseless, so he accepted. There was no initiation ritual and he was not asked to swear allegiance. The rules were simple: protect your own from violent people, settle internal disputes, and keep a measure of order in a place where authority often seemed insufficient. Over the months, deportations and transfers took away people he knew. They were replaced by newcomers, some of whom did not understand the dynamics of detention. He had to teach them. Before he knew it, Esteban was among the most long-standing members and, without seeking the role, he became one of the leaders of the gang.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/usa/2026-06-09/migrants-at-the-mercy-of-gangs-ice-detainees-forced-to-live-alongside-organized-crime.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-04-23/the-mystery-of-kevin-the-survivor-of-the-mass-disappearances-of-migrants-in-chiapas.html Thu, 23 Apr 2026 10:11:11 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-04-23/the-mystery-of-kevin-the-survivor-of-the-mass-disappearances-of-migrants-in-chiapas.html Beatriz Guillén This 29-year-old Salvadoran man told EL PAÍS that he survived the capsizing of a boat carrying dozens of people. The family of his missing girlfriend, Yosselyn Guerrero, believes he may be part of a trafficking network This 29-year-old Salvadoran man told EL PAÍS that he survived the capsizing of a boat carrying dozens of people. The family of his missing girlfriend, Yosselyn Guerrero, believes he may be part of a trafficking network México Chiapas Jalisco Eduardo Ramón (EL PAÍS) MEXICO - LANCHAS - DESAPARECIDOS - EP <img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/FKUGPKQ5ERAKVBGJOEKWVD2RX4.jpg?auth=2ef1951ba218164a98941f8cda2b4d3dc8aa52856009550867a7be70d1d450a9" width="3307" height="1862" alt="."></img><p>Kevin persuaded his girlfriend, Yosselyn Guerrero, to leave Tapachula for Mexico City with a simple promise: a furnished room awaited them in the Mexican capital. They would finally have a bed — no more sleeping on the floor of a borrowed house. The 30‑year‑old Salvadoran woman hesitated. On the border she already had a job in a small restaurant, and heading farther north meant putting even more distance between herself and her family in Santa Ana, who kept begging her to come home. In the end, Kevin’s plan prevailed. He chose the coyotes and the route, which included a stretch by boat across the ocean.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-04-23/the-mystery-of-kevin-the-survivor-of-the-mass-disappearances-of-migrants-in-chiapas.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/V72OELJEAVCYFERGRQURNUBENA.jpg?auth=6bf8f1db66c700d80be0da2f91f08f401a6e2215ab6e4853e814dd33411cf7b9" width="6000" height="4000" alt="Members of the National Guard conducting an operation in conjunction with the National Migration Institute in Chiapas."></img><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/XFL6T6LILJFUPHT5OFIZBFRQRE.jpg?auth=3b5f103ac6f8a51461bfb376921fcf3c562a019ef956235b8df7d66699c5d34a" width="4000" height="2250" alt="The San José El Hueyate sandbar and the Pacific Ocean, in an image taken on November 21, 2025."></img> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-04-11/guadalajara-a-world-cup-venue-trapped-between-dirty-water-social-unrest-and-a-measles-outbreak.html Sun, 12 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-04-11/guadalajara-a-world-cup-venue-trapped-between-dirty-water-social-unrest-and-a-measles-outbreak.html Erika Rosete The capital of Jalisco, which will host four matches, is suffering a severe water crisis affecting thousands of homes, while the government tries to contain protests over the increase in public transport fares The capital of Jalisco, which will host four matches, is suffering a severe water crisis affecting thousands of homes, while the government tries to contain protests over the increase in public transport fares FIFA Guadalajara México Nemesio "El Mencho" Jalisco Claudia Sheinbaum Roberto Antillón. (EL PAÍS) Wastewater in the Arroyo Seco, Jalisco, March 30. Wastewater in the Arroyo Seco, Jalisco, March 30. Roberto Antillón. Enrique Encizo, Sofía Enciso (dressed in black), and other members of the Un Salto de Vida association. Enrique Encizo, Sofía Enciso (dressed in black), and other members of the Un Salto de Vida association. Roberto Antillón. The Santiago River in the municipality of El Salto. The Santiago River in the municipality of El Salto. Roberto Antillón. Foam visible on the Santiago River, caused by detergents and industrial products. Foam visible on the Santiago River, caused by detergents and industrial products. Roberto Antillón. An employee of SIAPA in the municipality of El Salto lets a little water run to test its cleanliness. An employee of SIAPA in the municipality of El Salto lets a little water run to test its cleanliness. <img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/LPXVVDOBQJHPFGDZEUCAOV2NUY.jpg?auth=4fcfcc96ac373f2780552b88bd770bdf59dcf0351f2677ec8ca46ce28ff366f9" width="7847" height="5234" alt="Wastewater in the Arroyo Seco, Jalisco, March 30."></img><p>Entering or leaving Guadalajara has become an ordeal. Construction is everywhere, and traffic jams on the city’s main roads can exceed 35 minutes. Accidents are frequent, and social protests are mounting, bringing the capital of Jalisco to a boiling point weeks before it <a href="https://english.elpais.com/economy-and-business/2025-11-06/mexico-gives-fifa-a-blank-check.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/economy-and-business/2025-11-06/mexico-gives-fifa-a-blank-check.html">hosts four World Cup matches</a>. The sewage crisis, which has been affecting hundreds of thousands of residents for months, is the latest to compound other persistent problems in the city and its metropolitan area, home to five million people. Rising public transportation fares, complaints about the city’s “beautification” efforts, and a surge in measles cases in the state have increased the pressure on authorities who are seeing multiple challenges unfold less than 100 days before the start of the world’s biggest sporting event.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-04-11/guadalajara-a-world-cup-venue-trapped-between-dirty-water-social-unrest-and-a-measles-outbreak.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/6I6ZBHIYU5FAHOQLOLHSU6CJAU.jpg?auth=0a0c774dbd44ffc0375a69c239973179c9061c350426e7b02415c2b60530469a" width="8116" height="5413" alt="SIAPA workers clean a tank at the Las Huertas station."></img><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/VNENOISQQZFSJKQ5BVRYERTGFI.jpg?auth=8fc6c51e6335fcbfac03ba7d2eeecd22a7fcee0b40ee471fbb20f4991d6919dd" width="8192" height="5464" alt="Juan Pablo Macías in Guadalajara, on March 31."></img><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/ORBYQ5UHANC4PGALZGGHNUXIMQ.jpg?auth=3a1ff92ebfb848ed3be9e474bb95a8fea9620d6488b0c68815e0794a4ebef37f" width="7977" height="5321" alt="Sergio Garibi, one of the members of the Colonia Americana neighborhood council."></img><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/VQKPE67FRZBY3IIAXEFKLESUDQ.jpg?auth=b7c7717b34064a1b5e575665eb2963a038106e4ab37a9ed7f1ccc5d91f465ea6" width="8032" height="5357" alt="Demonstration against the price hike and other current crises in Guadalajara."></img><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/S6NUILWYT5EFFDNSCBTJKXA3X4.jpg?auth=80a0253d26ae31bb6fe1bc5109d3bdfed62214e339983a3e20d35df2d824d0b6" width="6028" height="4019" alt="A measles vaccination station in Guadalajara."></img> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-04-06/juan-carlos-valencia-gonzalez-emerges-in-power-vacuum-at-the-head-of-the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel.html Mon, 06 Apr 2026 14:07:56 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-04-06/juan-carlos-valencia-gonzalez-emerges-in-power-vacuum-at-the-head-of-the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel.html Beatriz Guillén Mexico and the United States identify the 41-year-old as the possible successor to the powerful organization. Part of an old Michoacán clan and stepson of El Mencho, criminal lineage looms large in the story of the leader of the CJNG’s Elite Group Mexico and the United States identify the 41-year-old as the possible successor to the powerful organization. Part of an old Michoacán clan and stepson of El Mencho, criminal lineage looms large in the story of the leader of the CJNG’s Elite Group Nemesio "El Mencho" Michoacán DEA Medellín (Colombia) Jalisco Los Zetas Sinaloa Joaquín Guzmán Loera "El Chapo" Ismael ‘El Mayo’ Zambada U.S. Department of State A wanted poster for Juan Carlos González Valencia. A wanted poster for Juan Carlos González Valencia. <p>Perhaps the history of Mexican drug trafficking is written in the story of <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-menchos-downfall-gives-a-boost-to-mexicos-security-strategy.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-menchos-downfall-gives-a-boost-to-mexicos-security-strategy.html">Juan Carlos Valencia González</a>. His father was a pioneer in drug smuggling, trading <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-10-31/death-threats-and-terror-the-price-of-denouncing-extortion-for-michoacan-farmers.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-10-31/death-threats-and-terror-the-price-of-denouncing-extortion-for-michoacan-farmers.html">avocado farming in Michoacán</a> for cocaine shipments; his mother and uncle transformed a family name into a criminal enterprise; and his stepfather was the world’s most wanted drug lord, founder of an international empire. Of undeniable criminal lineage, Valencia González is also known as “El Pelón,” “03,” “R3,” or “JP.” The Mexican government says he leads an elite armed group, and the United States is offering $5 million for any information leading to his capture. Both consider him, after the fall of <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html">Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes</a>, “El Mencho,” the likely successor at the head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). At 41, González Valencia is entering the criminal front line for the first time, a path he inherited from his family.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-04-06/juan-carlos-valencia-gonzalez-emerges-in-power-vacuum-at-the-head-of-the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/F7KEAZCXHFHMLCMB67KC6T2MOQ.jpg?auth=4eac7e492cca5d9b11254cd6c7f88e9d86c316a860177798e0c106eb213fe839" width="6000" height="4000" alt="Burned-out vehicles on the highway that connects Apatzingan and Aguililla, in Michoacán, in April 2021."></img> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-23/loose-ends-remain-after-the-downfall-of-el-mencho-the-last-great-drug-lord.html Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:24:11 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-23/loose-ends-remain-after-the-downfall-of-el-mencho-the-last-great-drug-lord.html Pablo Ferri The Attorney General Office’s failure to secure the site where the cartel kingpin was killed, the gaps in the narrative about the subsequent violence that left dozens dead, and the doubts about the future of the CJNG paint a picture of the current criminal landscape in Mexico The Attorney General Office’s failure to secure the site where the cartel kingpin was killed, the gaps in the narrative about the subsequent violence that left dozens dead, and the doubts about the future of the CJNG paint a picture of the current criminal landscape in Mexico Nemesio "El Mencho" México Jalisco Michoacán Sinaloa Omar García Harfuch Claudia Sheinbaum Los Chapitos Ovidio Guzmán López Ismael ‘El Mayo’ Zambada Joaquín Guzmán Loera "El Chapo" Carlo Echegoyen (EL PAÍS) National Guard troops at the Specialized Prosecutor's Office for Organized Crime, in Mexico City, February 22. National Guard troops at the Specialized Prosecutor's Office for Organized Crime, in Mexico City, February 22. <img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/GBLTM576YBDVXL6EVHLQ46W4EM.jpg?auth=512c617ca42f9f4559d828b9b98c2dda010702ec3eb0c31f26f7c4a0f23049cb" width="6000" height="4000" alt="National Guard troops at the Specialized Prosecutor's Office for Organized Crime, in Mexico City, February 22."></img><p>A chess game is being played in western Mexico, which is anxiously awaiting the new shape of organized crime. The <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html">capture of Nemesio Oseguera</a>, alias “El Mencho,” a month ago now calls into question the future of the criminal group he led, the <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel-a-criminal-enterprise-with-a-turbulent-rise.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel-a-criminal-enterprise-with-a-turbulent-rise.html">Jalisco New Generation Cartel</a> (CJNG), one of the most powerful on the continent, with roots in that area of Mexico and sustained by the firepower of its underlings and the businesses it was able to build. Doubts about the group’s leadership and the consequences of a foreseeable succession share the spotlight with the gaps in the official narrative about the violence in the hours following the kingpin’s death, and with the failure of the Attorney General’s Office to secure the <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-24/el-menchos-hideout-was-a-tourist-cabin-flagged-by-the-us-treasury.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-24/el-menchos-hideout-was-a-tourist-cabin-flagged-by-the-us-treasury.html">cabins where the military located the criminal</a>.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-23/loose-ends-remain-after-the-downfall-of-el-mencho-the-last-great-drug-lord.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/QRWWYP44X5BFHHLOG5IFQQG62I.jpg?auth=e48038fc7ab26fe0e1f71e43b2c5d451d558ca8d386cfa39660d1bdada8a1941" width="6720" height="4480" alt="The remains of Nemesio Oseguera, 'El Mencho,' are laid to rest in Jalisco, on March 2, 2026."></img> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-19/the-criminal-underworlds-of-mexico-colombia-and-ecuador-converge-in-the-murder-of-fernando-villavicencio.html Thu, 19 Mar 2026 16:41:49 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-19/the-criminal-underworlds-of-mexico-colombia-and-ecuador-converge-in-the-murder-of-fernando-villavicencio.html Pablo Ferri ,Carolina Mella Happe,Santiago Torrado The arrest of ‘Lobo Menor’ in the Mexican capital sheds light on the criminal relationship between the three countries, connected to cocaine trafficking The arrest of ‘Lobo Menor’ in the Mexican capital sheds light on the criminal relationship between the three countries, connected to cocaine trafficking Fernando Villavicencio Ecuador México Colombia FARC Gustavo Petro Nemesio "El Mencho" Jalisco Colombian Migration (via REUTERS) Colombian police escort Ángel Esteban Aguilar 'Lobo Menor' at El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá, Colombia, this Wednesday. Colombian police escort Ángel Esteban Aguilar 'Lobo Menor' at El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá, Colombia, this Wednesday. <p>Mexico on Wednesday captured Ángel Esteban Aguilar, alias “Lobo Menor,” one of the leaders of the Ecuadorian criminal group <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2024-01-21/criminal-mining-militarization-and-indigenous-challenges-in-the-ecuadorian-crisis.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2024-01-21/criminal-mining-militarization-and-indigenous-challenges-in-the-ecuadorian-crisis.html">Los Lobos</a>, which was designated a terrorist organization by the United States in September. Having arrived in Mexico under a false name, Lobo Menor was transferred to Colombia on Wednesday, a necessary step before facing justice in Ecuador, whose Interior Minister John Reimberg explained that Aguilar was wanted for the <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2023-08-12/four-hitmen-drug-cartels-and-security-failures-the-murder-of-fernando-villavicencio.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2023-08-12/four-hitmen-drug-cartels-and-security-failures-the-murder-of-fernando-villavicencio.html">2023 murder of Fernando Villavicencio</a>, then a presidential candidate.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-19/the-criminal-underworlds-of-mexico-colombia-and-ecuador-converge-in-the-murder-of-fernando-villavicencio.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/D3QQ2MPL35A2FMRBHE4NJD3EEI.jpg?auth=c61b87b8a3d1fa933d9b638be31cadcacf11d1b113c970a8178d44ac340a1257" width="8192" height="5464" alt="One of the cabins where El Mencho was hiding out, in Tapalpa, Jalisco, Mexico."></img> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-15/a-new-crime-map-for-mexico.html Sun, 15 Mar 2026 04:30:00 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-15/a-new-crime-map-for-mexico.html Pablo Ferri ,Patricia San Juan Beyond acronyms and groups, and the unequal territorial control they exert, the death of El Mencho demonstrates the intensification of operations against crime in the country, under the watchful eye of the United States Beyond acronyms and groups, and the unequal territorial control they exert, the death of El Mencho demonstrates the intensification of operations against crime in the country, under the watchful eye of the United States México Michoacán Los Chapitos Nemesio "El Mencho" Sinaloa Jalisco Omar García Harfuch Los Zetas Pablo Escobar Claudia Sheinbaum La Familia Michoacana Jose Luis Gonzalez (REUTERS) National Guard troops during an operation in Guadalajara, February 23. National Guard troops during an operation in Guadalajara, February 23. <p>First, César Sepúlveda, “<a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-02/on-the-trail-of-el-botox-in-mexicos-citrus-growing-wall-street.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-02/on-the-trail-of-el-botox-in-mexicos-citrus-growing-wall-street.html">El Bótox</a>,” fell in late January in Michoacán, and just a day later, <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-01-23/ryan-wedding-the-precocious-olympic-snowboarder-turned-king-of-cocaine-in-mexico.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-01-23/ryan-wedding-the-precocious-olympic-snowboarder-turned-king-of-cocaine-in-mexico.html">Ryan Wedding</a> followed suit, <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-01-28/instagram-photo-raises-questions-over-mexican-and-us-versions-of-the-downfall-of-drug-kingpin-ryan-wedding.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-01-28/instagram-photo-raises-questions-over-mexican-and-us-versions-of-the-downfall-of-drug-kingpin-ryan-wedding.html">supposedly surrendering</a> in Mexico City. In the following weeks, authorities focused on southern Sinaloa, besieged by the brutality of a cell linked to <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-12-29/sinaloa-cartel-war-is-taking-its-toll-on-los-chapitos.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-12-29/sinaloa-cartel-war-is-taking-its-toll-on-los-chapitos.html">Los Chapitos</a>, while the army, in Jalisco, orchestrated its major operation: the capture of the elusive leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) — the vast criminal network spanning the Americas — <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html">Nemesio Oseguera</a>, alias “El Mencho.” His death in a shootout with the military confirms the Mexican authorities’ intensified fight against crime. But the disappearance of various figures from the criminal chess board leaves the cartels without leadership and ushers in a period of uncertainty, in which violence looms as a menacing possibility.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-15/a-new-crime-map-for-mexico.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-11/cjng-heavyweights-choose-to-cooperate-with-us-justice-after-operation-against-el-mencho.html Wed, 11 Mar 2026 12:16:03 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-11/cjng-heavyweights-choose-to-cooperate-with-us-justice-after-operation-against-el-mencho.html Pablo Ferri The expected guilty pleas of Erick Valencia, ‘El 85’ and Abigael González, ‘El Cuini,’ confirm the decline of the old guard The expected guilty pleas of Erick Valencia, ‘El 85’ and Abigael González, ‘El Cuini,’ confirm the decline of the old guard Nemesio "El Mencho" Michoacán Jalisco Washington D.C. Cuartoscuro, Cedida Jalisco New Generation Cartel Erick Valencia (left) and Abigael González. Erick Valencia (left) and Abigael González. <p>Presented in a broad-stroke narrative, devoid of much detail, the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), in a military operation two and a half weeks ago, suddenly appears as the prelude to the legal proceedings against two of his former associates. Having been transferred to the United States in the last year, Erick Valencia, alias “El 85,” and <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/mexicos-defense-ministry-confirms-it-collaborated-with-us-in-operation-against-el-mencho.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/mexicos-defense-ministry-confirms-it-collaborated-with-us-in-operation-against-el-mencho.html">Abigael González</a>, alias “El Cuini,” former collaborators of El Mencho, are expected to plead guilty in the coming months in U.S. courts to various drug trafficking charges, further weakening the family ties in the formation of the <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-25/the-disputed-business-interests-of-the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-25/the-disputed-business-interests-of-the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel.html">criminal group’s future leadership</a>.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-11/cjng-heavyweights-choose-to-cooperate-with-us-justice-after-operation-against-el-mencho.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-03/el-menchos-death-brings-to-a-halt-the-search-for-missing-persons-in-jalisco.html Tue, 03 Mar 2026 10:24:57 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-03/el-menchos-death-brings-to-a-halt-the-search-for-missing-persons-in-jalisco.html Erika Rosete Family members are avoiding making statements and public appearances for their safety, while the local Congress is debating an initiative to prohibit missing persons posters in some areas of Guadalajara Family members are avoiding making statements and public appearances for their safety, while the local Congress is debating an initiative to prohibit missing persons posters in some areas of Guadalajara Nemesio "El Mencho" Jalisco México Guadalajara México Sedena México Marco Ugarte (AP) Search for missing persons in Jalisco Appeals at the Special Prosecutor's Office for Missing Persons in Guadalajara, February 25. Appeals at the Special Prosecutor's Office for Missing Persons in Guadalajara, February 25. <p>Families of <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-10-30/in-mexico-the-torment-of-searching-for-missing-persons-also-affects-the-families-of-police-officers.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-10-30/in-mexico-the-torment-of-searching-for-missing-persons-also-affects-the-families-of-police-officers.html">missing persons in Jalisco</a> have decided to halt their searches — as well as their public appearances and statements — amid the wave of violence, uncertainty, and fear that pervades the state following the <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-final-hours-of-el-mencho-the-worlds-most-wanted-criminal.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-final-hours-of-el-mencho-the-worlds-most-wanted-criminal.html">death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes</a>, alias “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). But risk is not the only challenge facing these groups. In the local Congress an initiative is being debated that, although initially intended to protect their activities, such as posting missing persons flyers in public places and preventing their removal, now proposes prohibiting them in certain locations. “The authorities know very well how to obstruct the search,” say relatives of missing persons, who requested anonymity.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-03/el-menchos-death-brings-to-a-halt-the-search-for-missing-persons-in-jalisco.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-02/puerto-vallarta-in-the-aftermath-of-el-menchos-death-we-got-the-message-theyre-in-charge-here.html Mon, 02 Mar 2026 20:26:16 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-02/puerto-vallarta-in-the-aftermath-of-el-menchos-death-we-got-the-message-theyre-in-charge-here.html Beatriz Guillén The popular tourist area suffered one of the most ferocious reprisals following the taking down of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader The popular tourist area suffered one of the most ferocious reprisals following the taking down of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader Nemesio "El Mencho" México Jalisco Los Chapitos Washington D.C. Roberto Antillón. (EL PAÍS) A burned out Oxxo store in Puerto Vallarta. A burned out Oxxo store in Puerto Vallarta. Roberto Antillón. Motorcycle shop burned during riots on February 22, in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. Motorcycle shop burned during riots on February 22, in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. Roberto Antillón. A person takes food from a burned-down Oxxo convenience store in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. A person takes food from a burned-down Oxxo convenience store in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. Roberto Antillón. Oxxo store burned down on the Luis Donaldo Colosio bypass in Puerto Vallarta. Oxxo store burned down on the Luis Donaldo Colosio bypass in Puerto Vallarta. Roberto Antillón. Oxxo store burned down in downtown Puerto Vallarta. Oxxo store burned down in downtown Puerto Vallarta. Roberto Antillón. Oxxo store burned down in the romantic zone or downtown Puerto Vallarta. Oxxo store burned down in the romantic zone or downtown Puerto Vallarta. Roberto Antillón. Tourists and locals watch a street performance under the arches of Puerto Vallarta's boardwalk. Tourists and locals watch a street performance under the arches of Puerto Vallarta's boardwalk. <img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/6AXZ6WYECNE5NAWTL2QOE7YY6Q.jpg?auth=0f08ae1441da8371f5d402cd5142fac2091f5e47b9203a6ad970f5e3da63c021" width="4000" height="2250" alt="A burned out Oxxo store in Puerto Vallarta."></img><p>It was a store, and now it’s a twisted wreck of steel, ashes, and scattered sheets of metal. The maintenance workers, already sunburnt, explain that the workload (though not the pay) overwhelmed them as of last Sunday: the structure was weak, the metal warped from the extreme heat, it couldn’t support the weight of the roof, and everything collapsed. The arson attacks carried out by the <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel-a-criminal-enterprise-with-a-turbulent-rise.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel-a-criminal-enterprise-with-a-turbulent-rise.html">Jalisco New Generation Cartel </a>(CJNG) against dozens of businesses and vehicles has left Puerto Vallarta, a coastal paradise in Mexico, scarred. The retaliation for the <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-22/mexico-kills-nemesio-oseguera-el-mencho-the-worlds-most-wanted-drug-lord.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-22/mexico-kills-nemesio-oseguera-el-mencho-the-worlds-most-wanted-drug-lord.html">downfall of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes</a>, “El Mencho,” scared away thousands of tourists, triggered a wave of cancellations, and reignited the fear in everyone who already knew, underneath it all, who controlled the city. Even outsiders understood: “We got the message. It was a show of power. They’re in charge here,” said Karen and Chris, a Canadian couple, after taking some photos in the burned-out ruins that had been an Oxxo convenience store just a week before. They weren’t the only ones taking a selfie, wearing a sun hat and swimsuit, as a souvenir.</p><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/FHZ6YI6XPJE27FQTFS7P3O56U4.jpg?auth=35f1e4a285d7b36bc0d4050d16d1f79e4e3845cb0d4496654f43df85bf928e70" width="7645" height="5099" alt="A tourist takes a selfie in front of a burned-down Oxxo store in Puerto Vallarta. "></img><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-03-02/puerto-vallarta-in-the-aftermath-of-el-menchos-death-we-got-the-message-theyre-in-charge-here.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/6C3RMWG4YVH4BPRIE5GA3CZKUY.jpg?auth=1ef86745c2465f4038aa682bd08a49590385d51b7cbc6732830f61017e9d410f" width="8192" height="5464" alt="The Ixtapa prison, in Puerto Vallarta."></img><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/CTZBIIWZ2RFWFHRM2ATQLSHHYE.jpg?auth=fd0d41a1dcf0aa3dd7e9fba02268a4b51c9b8d79a12d78506762fd246e3af245" width="8192" height="5464" alt="Lidia Fregoso, Susana Muñoz, Liliana Ibarra and Marcela Mendoza, from the collective A Light for Our Disappeared."></img><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/OEO5NJJYUZFRHCERY53J5JRULI.jpg?auth=677e497b169c4273e398eaa19caadf4e3476770e2709ade2b493ddbfb52fcc3f" width="8192" height="5464" alt="Foreign tourists observe navy units patrolling the Puerto Vallarta boardwalk on February 27."></img> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-27/mexicos-president-visits-sinaloa-following-spike-in-factional-cartel-fighting.html Fri, 27 Feb 2026 11:01:14 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-27/mexicos-president-visits-sinaloa-following-spike-in-factional-cartel-fighting.html Zedryk Raziel,Marcos Vizcarra Claudia Sheinbaum is preparing a two-day visit to the Mexican state caught in the crossfire between Los Chapitos and La Mayiza Claudia Sheinbaum is preparing a two-day visit to the Mexican state caught in the crossfire between Los Chapitos and La Mayiza Claudia Sheinbaum México Jalisco Sinaloa Los Chapitos Joaquín Guzmán Loera "El Chapo" Ismael ‘El Mayo’ Zambada Nemesio "El Mencho" Mónica González Islas (EL PAÍS) Mexico’s president visits Sinaloa Missing persons files at the State Attorney General's Office, in Mazatlán, Sinaloa, on February 17. Missing persons files at the State Attorney General's Office, in Mazatlán, Sinaloa, on February 17. <img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/6WYNI243AJDGHKMG7KSPWSGFXE.jpg?auth=bb08529b2596398b8ef3afdcb63c9bdcb092a080a3cc2217b486ea71c3392348" width="5711" height="3807" alt="Missing persons files at the State Attorney General's Office, in Mazatlán, Sinaloa, on February 17."></img><p>Many local wars between drug cartels are being fought in Mexico. At times, one of these battles overshadows others, which continue to rage in the background. The unexpected fall last weekend of <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html">Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera</a>, the head of the <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel-a-criminal-enterprise-with-a-turbulent-rise.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel-a-criminal-enterprise-with-a-turbulent-rise.html">Jalisco New Generation Cartel</a> (CJNG), shifted attention away from the drug war that has been raging in the neighboring state of Sinaloa.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-27/mexicos-president-visits-sinaloa-following-spike-in-factional-cartel-fighting.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-26/following-the-trail-of-el-menchos-last-battle-in-tapalpa.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 09:59:29 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-26/following-the-trail-of-el-menchos-last-battle-in-tapalpa.html Beatriz Guillén EL PAÍS gained access to the cabin complex, nestled in a luxurious mountain retreat in Jalisco, where the world’s most wanted drug trafficker and his security detail staged their last stand with the Mexican army EL PAÍS gained access to the cabin complex, nestled in a luxurious mountain retreat in Jalisco, where the world’s most wanted drug trafficker and his security detail staged their last stand with the Mexican army Nemesio "El Mencho" Jalisco Guadalajara México Michoacán Alejandro Fernández Canelo Álvarez Donald Trump Roberto Antillón. (EL PAÍS) El Mencho’s last battle in Tapalpa A room in one of the cabins in Tapalpa, Jalisco, Wednesday. A room in one of the cabins in Tapalpa, Jalisco, Wednesday. Roberto Antillón. (EL PAÍS) Interior of a room in one of the cabins. Interior of a room in one of the cabins. Roberto Antillón. Notes left inside one of the cabins. Notes left inside one of the cabins. Roberto Antillón. Stuffed animals inside one of the cabins. Stuffed animals inside one of the cabins. Roberto Antillón. Cabin where shell casings and bloodstains were found in a pickup truck. Cabin where shell casings and bloodstains were found in a pickup truck. Roberto Antillón. A fragment of clothing. A fragment of clothing. Roberto Antillón. Remains of homemade explosives and clothing. Remains of homemade explosives and clothing. Roberto Antillón. Vehicles pulled over next to the first cabin in the subdivision. Vehicles pulled over next to the first cabin in the subdivision. Roberto Antillón. Shell casings located in front of one of the cabins. Shell casings located in front of one of the cabins. Roberto Antillón. Boot marks on one of the entrance doors. Boot marks on one of the entrance doors. Roberto Antillón. Burnt-out cars next to the Pinto Historical Ranch, located next to La Loma Cabins. Burnt-out cars next to the Pinto Historical Ranch, located next to La Loma Cabins. Roberto Antillón. Pieces of glass from a window, next to a bullet. Pieces of glass from a window, next to a bullet. Roberto Antillón. Abandoned vehicles next to the first cabin in the subdivision. Abandoned vehicles next to the first cabin in the subdivision. Roberto Antillón. Holes in the facade of one of the cabins. Holes in the facade of one of the cabins. Roberto Antillón. Broken window in a room. Broken window in a room. Roberto Antillón. Broken glass next to a religious statue in one of the cabins. Broken glass next to a religious statue in one of the cabins. <img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/WM6TMG5WOBCJREXLJYE7V3W65M.jpg?auth=1a39a8978dbf47bc50c7bc2dd1c636ff36f9e8c0c4bc42f4ada841ddf504af8a" width="8192" height="5464" alt="A room in one of the cabins in Tapalpa, Jalisco, Wednesday."></img><p>The cabin has two rooms: one decorated with taxidermied animal heads, the other a war zone. The sofa is against the door, bullets litter the floor, a window has been shattered by a gunshot, a trunk serves as a trench, and there’s also a deer missing an ear. It’s the largest house in the La Loma luxury cabin complex in Tapalpa, a favorite town of Jalisco’s wealthy and, as of last Sunday, the site where the Mexican army killed <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html">Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes</a>, “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). On this property — which includes a dozen houses, a basketball court, trampolines, and parking — traces of blood, shell casings, bullet holes, vehicles, and tactical gear still remain. These are the remnants of the last battle fought by El Mencho and his security team before the drug lord fled into the trees with four of his bodyguards. There, in the undergrowth, he was mortally wounded. Even now, smoke rises from the forest.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-26/following-the-trail-of-el-menchos-last-battle-in-tapalpa.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/SA4BQH65IVE5HCSH6U3CVP6OGQ.jpg?auth=c9c0b929368b520be725d8548be6faa54555c9cb5e6cbb8f702a8263ec5ca171" width="4000" height="2250" alt="Cabañas La Loma, site of the confrontation between military personnel and members of the CJNG."></img><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/MKKYYER7E5AADCQBSMP7PXMV3Q.jpg?auth=8f23af4c7c14b490f6b9d7755fe9a3a5df40886d8084c1bde4f9ebec014febd8" width="8192" height="5464" alt="View of the main square of Tapalpa, Jalisco, on February 25."></img><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/WKZXJYCPEZF65NYYBTM3MVRM2A.jpg?auth=cf54f019795e5c578cd388ccdb420dbb9422f3a8ace3b1d484d1b55c18549e61" width="8192" height="5464" alt="An Oxxo store burned during riots over the federal operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco."></img> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-25/el-menchos-family-requests-the-release-of-the-cjng-leaders-body.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 17:29:13 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-25/el-menchos-family-requests-the-release-of-the-cjng-leaders-body.html Micaela Varela Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office has received a written request from a legal representative and will begin the protocol required to complete all procedures related to the custody of the deceased cartel boss Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office has received a written request from a legal representative and will begin the protocol required to complete all procedures related to the custody of the deceased cartel boss Nemesio "El Mencho" Jalisco México Carlo Echegoyen (EL PAÍS) MEXICO- FEMDO-SEIDO CDMX-MENCHO A vehicle from Forensic Services in Mexico City, on February 22. A vehicle from Forensic Services in Mexico City, on February 22. <img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/AYKR6PTIKNGJVGO6J6TGNV3YSE.jpg?auth=5c1ad0651daf3bb642c109e113641f08eb8cfcbd2c250899047bc15a174fcf6c" width="6000" height="4000" alt="A vehicle from Forensic Services in Mexico City, on February 22."></img><p>A legal representative for the family of <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-25/the-use-of-ai-and-bots-behind-the-wave-of-digital-disinformation-about-the-fall-of-el-mencho.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-25/the-use-of-ai-and-bots-behind-the-wave-of-digital-disinformation-about-the-fall-of-el-mencho.html">Nemesio Oseguera</a>, alias “El Mencho,” has submitted a request to Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office (FGR) to begin the process of releasing the body of the leader of the <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-24/from-carlos-manzo-to-el-pirata-de-culiacan-a-decade-of-murders-by-the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-24/from-carlos-manzo-to-el-pirata-de-culiacan-a-decade-of-murders-by-the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel.html">Jalisco New Generation Cartel</a> (CJNG). The body is being held by the Mexican Forensic Service (Semefo), and the public prosecutor must complete all procedural steps required to formally hand it over, according to the FGR’s statement. </p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-25/el-menchos-family-requests-the-release-of-the-cjng-leaders-body.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-25/the-disputed-business-interests-of-the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 09:33:32 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-25/the-disputed-business-interests-of-the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel.html Carlos Carabaña Following the death of El Mencho, a succession process begins to control the lucrative criminal tentacles of Mexico’s most powerful cartel Following the death of El Mencho, a succession process begins to control the lucrative criminal tentacles of Mexico’s most powerful cartel Nemesio "El Mencho" DEA Pemex Washington D.C. México Jalisco Tamaulipas FBI Stringer (REUTERS) Jalisco New Generation Cartel Members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel in Michoacán, October 15, 2022. Members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel in Michoacán, October 15, 2022. <p>Three days after the death of <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-24/mexico-a-country-without-drug-lords.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-24/mexico-a-country-without-drug-lords.html">Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes</a>, “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), and with the narco-blockades and attacks against businesses and the security forces now contained, new questions arise as the week progresses. With the kingpin dead and no clear successor, the biggest unknown is who will rise to become the new head of Mexico’s most powerful criminal organization. It’s also unclear whether the succession process will be smooth and peaceful or if, as analysts predict, violence will erupt over the power struggle. What is beyond doubt is that the kingdom to be inherited is vast. The DEA defines the Jalisco New Generation Cartel as one of the most influential and ruthless mafias in Mexico, with a unique franchise structure and access to vast financial and corrupt political resources, with a presence in at least 40 countries.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-25/the-disputed-business-interests-of-the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-24/el-menchos-hideout-was-a-tourist-cabin-flagged-by-the-us-treasury.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 16:08:53 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-24/el-menchos-hideout-was-a-tourist-cabin-flagged-by-the-us-treasury.html Micaela Varela The leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel was killed in Tapalpa, an ecotourism hotspot near a reservoir, a golf club, and surrounded by hotels The leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel was killed in Tapalpa, an ecotourism hotspot near a reservoir, a golf club, and surrounded by hotels Nemesio "El Mencho" Jalisco Guadalajara México EL PAÍS MENCHO BUENOS AIRES Satellite view of the cabins where Nemesio Oseguera, alias "El Mencho," was hiding. Satellite view of the cabins where Nemesio Oseguera, alias "El Mencho," was hiding. <p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html">Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes</a>, alias “El Mencho,” had spent the last few <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-24/all-the-times-el-mencho-nearly-fell-in-the-last-decade.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-24/all-the-times-el-mencho-nearly-fell-in-the-last-decade.html">decades hiding in the shadows</a>. Investigators knew that Mexico’s most powerful drug lord was hiding somewhere in the mountains of Jalisco, protected and escorted by a tight security circle of men he trusted completely, all heavily armed. The kingpin was so elusive that there weren’t even recent photos of him; the few that existed still showed him clean‑shaven and youthful. </p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-24/el-menchos-hideout-was-a-tourist-cabin-flagged-by-the-us-treasury.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/HQWRVID6KRBDTMM745L6UJMDH4.jpg?auth=642f2e84fc6c3707338ae57be3b2252526db7e79879cfe112dfb83416b62035c" width="4695" height="3130" alt="Satellite view of the cabins where Nemesio Oseguera was hiding."></img> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-final-hours-of-el-mencho-the-worlds-most-wanted-criminal.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:09:28 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-final-hours-of-el-mencho-the-worlds-most-wanted-criminal.html Beatriz Guillén Nemesio Oseguera was in hiding in the mountains of Jalisco with a dozen bodyguards. It was a visit from one of his “sentimental partners” that allowed authorities to locate and kill him in an operation by Mexican Army special forces Nemesio Oseguera was in hiding in the mountains of Jalisco with a dozen bodyguards. It was a visit from one of his “sentimental partners” that allowed authorities to locate and kill him in an operation by Mexican Army special forces América México Nemesio "El Mencho" Claudia Sheinbaum Omar García Harfuch Jalisco Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación Narcotráfico Cárteles mexicanos Crimen organizado Delitos Violencia Departamento de Justicia de EE UU MÉXICO - MENCHO FICHA Wanted poster for Nemesio Oseguera ‘El Mencho’. Wanted poster for Nemesio Oseguera ‘El Mencho’. <p>The story of the world’s most wanted drug trafficker ends with him huddled in a forest in the mountains of Jalisco. Mortally wounded, armed with a rocket launcher, and accompanied by four of his most trusted men, the journey of <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html">Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, “El Mencho,” </a>came to an end in the early hours of Sunday morning after four decades dedicated to drug trafficking and building his own criminal empire,<a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel-a-criminal-enterprise-with-a-turbulent-rise.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel-a-criminal-enterprise-with-a-turbulent-rise.html"> the Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG)</a>. El Mencho died from gunfire by a Mexican Army special forces unit, which had spent years gathering intelligence to locate him and finally found his last known position in the same way they had brought about the downfall of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán 10 years earlier, also on February 22nd: through the visit from a woman.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-final-hours-of-el-mencho-the-worlds-most-wanted-criminal.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/K7GA6WPUW5E3XN5GJPROHA56NE.JPG?auth=c7a21824745d52b2b4d1a9d30b2bd8f1b5184344425fbd1b213bcaf0bd3a13ca" width="4096" height="3072" alt="Columns of smoke in Puerto Vallarta, this Sunday."></img> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/mexico-on-alert-after-the-fall-of-el-mencho.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 11:42:20 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/mexico-on-alert-after-the-fall-of-el-mencho.html Beatriz Guillén A dozen states suspended classes for Monday, and several others have convened their security cabinets to monitor the wave of violence unleashed by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel following the death of its leader A dozen states suspended classes for Monday, and several others have convened their security cabinets to monitor the wave of violence unleashed by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel following the death of its leader Nemesio "El Mencho" México Claudia Sheinbaum Jalisco Sinaloa Armando Solis (AP) APTOPIX Mexico Cartel Death A soldier deployed in the area of ​​a drug cartel roadblock in Cointzio, Michoacán, on Sunday. A soldier deployed in the area of ​​a drug cartel roadblock in Cointzio, Michoacán, on Sunday. Carlo Echegoyen MEXICO- FEMDO-SEIDO CDMX-MENCHO A Rhino armored vehicle in front of the headquarters of the Special Attorney General's Office for Organized Crime in Mexico City, where experts will perform an autopsy on the body of the CJNG leader to officially confirm his death. A Rhino armored vehicle in front of the headquarters of the Special Attorney General's Office for Organized Crime in Mexico City, where experts will perform an autopsy on the body of the CJNG leader to officially confirm his death. Alam N. López (EL PAÍS) MÉXICO-CAPTURA EL MENCHO-PUERTO VALLARTA Columns of smoke rise above Puerto Vallarta in the Emiliano Zapata neighborhood, following the death of Mexican drug lord Nemesio Oseguera. Columns of smoke rise above Puerto Vallarta in the Emiliano Zapata neighborhood, following the death of Mexican drug lord Nemesio Oseguera. Michelle Freyria (REUTERS) MEXICO-MÉXICO - BLOQUEOS GUADALAJARA - JALISCO-MENCHO The violence spread to different states in Mexico, such as Michoacán and Colima. The violence spread to different states in Mexico, such as Michoacán and Colima. Alejandra Leyva (AP) APTOPIX Mexico Cartel Death A charred vehicle sits at a damaged supermarket in Guadalajara, Jalisco state, Mexico, Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026, after the death of the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. A charred vehicle sits at a damaged supermarket in Guadalajara, Jalisco state, Mexico, Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026, after the death of the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Roberto Antillón MEXICO-MÉXICO - BLOQUEOS GUADALAJARA - JALISCO-MENCHO A charred car in downtown Guadalajara. A charred car in downtown Guadalajara. Carlo Echegoyen MEXICO- FEMDO-SEIDO CDMX-MENCHO Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes coolly and quietly expanded his criminal business beyond drugs, with tentacles throughout the country capable of assassinating judges, politicians, and military personnel. In the image: National Guard vehicles in the vicinity of the FEMDO in Mexico City. Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes coolly and quietly expanded his criminal business beyond drugs, with tentacles throughout the country capable of assassinating judges, politicians, and military personnel. In the image: National Guard vehicles in the vicinity of the FEMDO in Mexico City. Alam N. López MÉXICO-CAPTURA EL MENCHO-PUERTO VALLARTA A burned-out vehicle blocks a road in the tourist city of Puerto Vallarta, in Jalisco. A burned-out vehicle blocks a road in the tourist city of Puerto Vallarta, in Jalisco. Michelle Freyria (REUTERS) Mexican drug lord Nemesio Oseguera, commonly known as "El Mencho," killed in military operation, triggering blockades in Mexico The empty streets of Guadalajara's historic center after blockades and clashes throughout the day across the country. The empty streets of Guadalajara's historic center after blockades and clashes throughout the day across the country. Gabriel Trujillo (REUTERS) Mexican drug lord Nemesio Oseguera, commonly known as "El Mencho," killed in military operation, triggering blockades in Mexico Army checkpoint on a road in Zapopan. Army checkpoint on a road in Zapopan. Roberto Antillón MEXICO-MÉXICO - BLOQUEOS GUADALAJARA - JALISCO-MENCHO The first reports of roadblocks began in Tapalpa, Jalisco. In the image: a burned-out vehicle in Guadalajara. The first reports of roadblocks began in Tapalpa, Jalisco. In the image: a burned-out vehicle in Guadalajara. Alonso Cupul (EFE) México confirma muerte de capo narcotraficante en operativo con ayuda de EEUU Security forces guard the area where a vehicle was set on fire by alleged members of organized crime on Sunday in the resort town of Cancún in Quintana Roo. Security forces guard the area where a vehicle was set on fire by alleged members of organized crime on Sunday in the resort town of Cancún in Quintana Roo. Alam N. López (EL PAÍS) MÉXICO-CAPTURA EL MENCHO-PUERTO VALLARTA Fires in the vicinity of the Santa Cruz church following confirmation of the death of the CJNG leader this morning in Puerto Vallarta. Fires in the vicinity of the Santa Cruz church following confirmation of the death of the CJNG leader this morning in Puerto Vallarta. Fotógrafo Especial/CUARTOSCURO MEXICO-MÉXICO - BLOQUEOS GUADALAJARA - JALISCO-MENCHO Vehicles set on fire in Guadalajara. Vehicles set on fire in Guadalajara. Michelle Freyria (REUTERS) MEXICO-MÉXICO - BLOQUEOS GUADALAJARA - JALISCO-MENCHO People capture images of a burned vehicle used as barricade by organized crime members following a series of arrests by federal forces in Guadalajara, Mexico, on February 22, 2026. People capture images of a burned vehicle used as barricade by organized crime members following a series of arrests by federal forces in Guadalajara, Mexico, on February 22, 2026. Francisco Guasco (EFE) Abatido en México el líder del Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), alias El Mencho Members of the Guadalajara Fire Department responded to the emergency. Members of the Guadalajara Fire Department responded to the emergency. Fotógrafo Especial/CUARTOSCURO MEXICO-MÉXICO - BLOQUEOS GUADALAJARA - JALISCO-MENCHO Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias "El Mencho," was killed during the operation. Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias "El Mencho," was killed during the operation. Carlo Echegoyen MEXICO- FEMDO-SEIDO CDMX-MENCHO Members of the National Guard guard the headquarters of the Special Attorney General's Office for Organized Crime in Mexico City while awaiting the transfer of Oseguera's body. Members of the National Guard guard the headquarters of the Special Attorney General's Office for Organized Crime in Mexico City while awaiting the transfer of Oseguera's body. Alejandra Leyva (AP) Mexico Cartel Death The Jalisco State Government activated a code red in the state, asking citizens to avoid going out on the streets and canceling all types of public events. The Jalisco State Government activated a code red in the state, asking citizens to avoid going out on the streets and canceling all types of public events. Roberto Antillón. (EL PAÍS) MÉXICO - BLOQUEOS GUADALAJARA - JALISCO Cars set on fire on Juárez Avenue in downtown Guadalajara on Sunday. Cars set on fire on Juárez Avenue in downtown Guadalajara on Sunday. Francisco Guasco (EFE) Caos y violencia en varios estados de México tras muerte de El Mencho, líder del CJNG A bullet casing in front of a shopping center after an attack by alleged members of organized crime on Sunday in Guadalajara. A bullet casing in front of a shopping center after an attack by alleged members of organized crime on Sunday in Guadalajara. Roberto Antillón MEXICO-MÉXICO - BLOQUEOS GUADALAJARA - JALISCO-MENCHO Posters of missing persons and a burned-out vehicle on the corner of 16 de Septiembre and La Paz, in downtown Guadalajara. Posters of missing persons and a burned-out vehicle on the corner of 16 de Septiembre and La Paz, in downtown Guadalajara. Roberto Antillón MEXICO-MÉXICO - BLOQUEOS GUADALAJARA - JALISCO-MENCHO Tire spikes blocking vehicle traffic in Guadalajara. Tire spikes blocking vehicle traffic in Guadalajara. Roberto Antillón MEXICO-MÉXICO - BLOQUEOS GUADALAJARA - JALISCO-MENCHO Deserted streets in downtown Guadalajara after the narco-blockades. Deserted streets in downtown Guadalajara after the narco-blockades. CEDIDA MEXICO-ATAQUE TLAPALPA JASLICO NARCOBLOQUEOS The Jalisco government has asked citizens to stay at home and transportation has been suspended. The Jalisco government has asked citizens to stay at home and transportation has been suspended. Francisco Guasco (EFE) Abatido en México el líder del Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), alias El Mencho Emergency forces extinguish a burned out car. Emergency forces extinguish a burned out car. <p>A man was gunned down, and an entire country went on alert. <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html">Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes</a>, the leader of the <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel-a-criminal-enterprise-with-a-turbulent-rise.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel-a-criminal-enterprise-with-a-turbulent-rise.html">Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG)</a> and the world’s most‑wanted criminal, <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-22/mexico-kills-nemesio-oseguera-el-mencho-the-worlds-most-wanted-drug-lord.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-22/mexico-kills-nemesio-oseguera-el-mencho-the-worlds-most-wanted-drug-lord.html">died on Sunday</a> after a Mexican Army operation in the mountains of Jalisco. The consequences of his fall spread quickly throughout Mexico. A dozen states suspended school classes for Monday; several governors urgently convened their security cabinets to monitor the wave of violence unleashed by organized crime; the national trucking association urged drivers to seek shelter; and the United States warned its citizens in nearly a third of the country not to leave their homes. Meanwhile, in the state of Jalisco — the cradle of the CJNG — people are still holding their breath: what will the most powerful criminal group in the country do in response to the unexpected death of its leader?</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/mexico-on-alert-after-the-fall-of-el-mencho.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/K7GA6WPUW5E3XN5GJPROHA56NE.JPG?auth=c7a21824745d52b2b4d1a9d30b2bd8f1b5184344425fbd1b213bcaf0bd3a13ca" width="4096" height="3072" alt="Columns of smoke rise in Puerto Vallarta after vehicles and businesses were burned by members of organized crime following the fall of the CJNG leader."></img> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel-a-criminal-enterprise-with-a-turbulent-rise.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:51:59 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel-a-criminal-enterprise-with-a-turbulent-rise.html Zedryk Raziel The death of El Mencho raises questions about who will succeed him at the head of the powerful criminal organization, whose operations range from drug trafficking to extortion and money laundering The death of El Mencho raises questions about who will succeed him at the head of the powerful criminal organization, whose operations range from drug trafficking to extortion and money laundering Nemesio "El Mencho" Jalisco México Sinaloa Omar García Harfuch Donald Trump CUARTOSCURO MÉXICO-MICHOACÁN-CJNG Members of the Lagarto Operational Group, the armed wing of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), in the mountains of the state of Michoacán, in 2023. Members of the Lagarto Operational Group, the armed wing of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), in the mountains of the state of Michoacán, in 2023. <p>The <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-menchos-downfall-gives-a-boost-to-mexicos-security-strategy.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-menchos-downfall-gives-a-boost-to-mexicos-security-strategy.html">Jalisco New Generation Cartel</a> (CJNG) made its grand entrance onto the criminal scene with a macabre image: the public display of 35 corpses — bearing signs of torture — in the city of Boca del Río, Veracruz, in 2011. The criminal group of <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-menchos-downfall-gives-a-boost-to-mexicos-security-strategy.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-menchos-downfall-gives-a-boost-to-mexicos-security-strategy.html">Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguerra</a> was then known as Los Matazetas (The Zetas Killers), as that was supposedly its purpose: to exterminate the Los Zetas cartel. Since Los Zetas had a reputation for being bloodthirsty, the CJNG — which in its early days was in alliance with the Sinaloa Cartel — mirrored their violence and pushed it into outright barbarism. El Mencho’s hitmen even strapped dynamite to their rivals’ bodies to make them explode while still alive.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/the-jalisco-new-generation-cartel-a-criminal-enterprise-with-a-turbulent-rise.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:51:35 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html David Marcial Pérez The cool-headed founder of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel expanded the criminal enterprise, pushing it far beyond drug trafficking. It had tentacles across the entire country and was capable of assassinating judges, politicians, and military officers The cool-headed founder of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel expanded the criminal enterprise, pushing it far beyond drug trafficking. It had tentacles across the entire country and was capable of assassinating judges, politicians, and military officers Nemesio "El Mencho" Sinaloa Jalisco DEA México departamento de policía de San Francisco MÉXICO-NEMESIO OSEGUERA-PERFIL Nemesio Oseguera, 'El Mencho', in a photo of his arrest in San Francisco, in 1989. Nemesio Oseguera, 'El Mencho', in a photo of his arrest in San Francisco, in 1989. <p>There were only three photos of him. All of them were the typical mugshots from U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) files, taken in the early 1990s. First, they caught him with a bit of marijuana. Later, selling heroin to undercover officers in a San Francisco bar. He was just over 20 and made a living crossing illegally into the United States, getting arrested, and being deported. He always found a way to cross back. But after serving a few years in prison, he decided to stay in Mexico. From that point on, there are no more photos of the criminal career that would turn <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-03-31/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-in-charge-of-mexicos-most-powerful-cartel.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-03-31/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-in-charge-of-mexicos-most-powerful-cartel.html">Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes</a> into the boss of the most powerful mafia in the country, the<a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-09-22/cartel-recruitment-in-jalisco-there-were-two-options-undergo-three-months-of-training-or-be-shot-in-the-head.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-09-22/cartel-recruitment-in-jalisco-there-were-two-options-undergo-three-months-of-training-or-be-shot-in-the-head.html"> Jalisco New Generation Cartel</a> (CJNG).</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-23/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-who-revolutionized-mexicos-criminal-landscape.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-22/mexico-kills-nemesio-oseguera-el-mencho-the-worlds-most-wanted-drug-lord.html Sun, 22 Feb 2026 18:48:47 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-22/mexico-kills-nemesio-oseguera-el-mencho-the-worlds-most-wanted-drug-lord.html Pablo Ferri The leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel had spent decades evading justice. He was brought down in an operation in the mountains of Jalisco that has sparked a violent reaction in various states across the country The leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel had spent decades evading justice. He was brought down in an operation in the mountains of Jalisco that has sparked a violent reaction in various states across the country México Nemesio "El Mencho" Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación Ismael ‘El Mayo’ Zambada Joaquín Guzmán López Michoacán Jalisco Rafael Caro Quintero Omar García Harfuch Rastreo de redes (EFE) Abatido en México el líder del Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), alias El Mencho Nemesio Oseguera 'El Mencho'. Nemesio Oseguera 'El Mencho'. <p>The Mexican military killed <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-03-31/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-in-charge-of-mexicos-most-powerful-cartel.html" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-03-31/el-mencho-the-discreet-drug-lord-in-charge-of-mexicos-most-powerful-cartel.html">Rubén Nemesio Oseguera, alias “El Mencho,”</a> the most wanted and dangerous drug trafficker in the world, this weekend in the state of Jalisco, in central Mexico, according to official sources who confirmed the information to EL PAÍS. The leader of the <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-09-22/cartel-recruitment-in-jalisco-there-were-two-options-undergo-three-months-of-training-or-be-shot-in-the-head.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-09-22/cartel-recruitment-in-jalisco-there-were-two-options-undergo-three-months-of-training-or-be-shot-in-the-head.html">Jalisco New Generation Cartel</a> (CJNG), the country’s most significant criminal group, Oseguera headed a criminal enterprise with countless tentacles — more powerful than any other, violent and aggressive in its business practices, and primarily linked to drug trafficking. Although authorities have not yet provided many details, El Mencho was brought down in an operation in the mountains of Jalisco, where he had operated freely for decades, protected by his criminal ranks.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-22/mexico-kills-nemesio-oseguera-el-mencho-the-worlds-most-wanted-drug-lord.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/usa/2026-02-20/the-jensen-case-reveals-how-proceeds-from-stolen-crude-moved-from-the-us-to-a-mexican-cartel.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 12:18:18 GMT https://english.elpais.com/usa/2026-02-20/the-jensen-case-reveals-how-proceeds-from-stolen-crude-moved-from-the-us-to-a-mexican-cartel.html Zedryk Raziel From Texas, Luxemborg Trading LLC ordered thousands of shipments with the help of shell companies in Mexico, in a vast operation that has delivered $8 million dollars to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel From Texas, Luxemborg Trading LLC ordered thousands of shipments with the help of shell companies in Mexico, in a vast operation that has delivered $8 million dollars to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel DEA México Jalisco Texas Huachicol Pemex Cedida The Jensen case James Laen Jensen and his wife, Kelly Anne Jensen, in an undated photograph. James Laen Jensen and his wife, Kelly Anne Jensen, in an undated photograph. <p>The trial in the<a href="https://english.elpais.com/usa/2025-09-15/the-jensens-the-us-family-that-smuggled-2900-shipments-of-crude-oil-from-mexico-to-texas.html?event_log=oklogin" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/usa/2025-09-15/the-jensens-the-us-family-that-smuggled-2900-shipments-of-crude-oil-from-mexico-to-texas.html?event_log=oklogin"> United States against the Jensen family</a> is beginning to reveal the criminal structure that allegedly helped them illegally smuggle thousands of shipments of crude oil stolen from Pemex, the Mexican state-owned oil company, into the U.S. EL PAÍS has followed the trail of the intermediary who connects the family of oil magnate James Jensen to the leadership of the <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-09-22/cartel-recruitment-in-jalisco-there-were-two-options-undergo-three-months-of-training-or-be-shot-in-the-head.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-09-22/cartel-recruitment-in-jalisco-there-were-two-options-undergo-three-months-of-training-or-be-shot-in-the-head.html">Jalisco New Generation Cartel</a> (CJNG), which is in charge of <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-09-17/mexico-fuel-trafficking-network-operated-since-at-least-2023with-69-shipments-and-more-than-150-million-in-profits.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-09-17/mexico-fuel-trafficking-network-operated-since-at-least-2023with-69-shipments-and-more-than-150-million-in-profits.html"><i>huachicol</i></a><i>: </i>the fuel theft business. </p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/usa/2026-02-20/the-jensen-case-reveals-how-proceeds-from-stolen-crude-moved-from-the-us-to-a-mexican-cartel.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-02/on-the-trail-of-el-botox-in-mexicos-citrus-growing-wall-street.html Mon, 02 Feb 2026 17:04:20 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-02/on-the-trail-of-el-botox-in-mexicos-citrus-growing-wall-street.html Pablo Ferri The vast lemon industry of the Tierra Caliente region of Michoacán, where the alleged extortionist had his fiefdom, puts any preconceived notions about violence and power to shame The vast lemon industry of the Tierra Caliente region of Michoacán, where the alleged extortionist had his fiefdom, puts any preconceived notions about violence and power to shame Michoacán Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación La Familia Michoacana Jalisco Juan José Estrada Serafín 'El Bótox' in 2013, in the Pareo community, municipality of Tancítaro. 'El Bótox' in 2013, in the Pareo community, municipality of Tancítaro. Juan José Estrada Serafín (EL PAÍS) Tour of lemon orchards in a production field in the community of Cenobio Moreno in Buenavista Tomatlán, Michoacán, on January 28, 2026. Tour of lemon orchards in a production field in the community of Cenobio Moreno in Buenavista Tomatlán, Michoacán, on January 28, 2026. Juan José Estrada Serafín (EL PAÍS) Production field in the community of Cenobio Moreno in Buenavista Tomatlán, Michoacán. Production field in the community of Cenobio Moreno in Buenavista Tomatlán, Michoacán. Juan José Estrada Serafín (EL PAÍS) Lemon production in the community of Cenobio Moreno in Buenavista Tomatlán. Lemon production in the community of Cenobio Moreno in Buenavista Tomatlán. Juan José Estrada Serafín (EL PAÍS) Workers check the lemon harvest in the community of Cenobio Moreno. Workers check the lemon harvest in the community of Cenobio Moreno. Juan José Estrada Serafín (Cuartoscuro) Security personnel monitor the lemon market. Security personnel monitor the lemon market. <p>The women gather on a bench in Cenobio Moreno. There are more than 10 of them, laughing, murmuring, fiddling with the sleeves of their shirts, the loose strands of their hair in buns. It’s hot, and it’s been dark for a while now; a January heat, 36 degrees Celsius, with acceptable humidity. “Shall we do it now?” one of them says. “Let’s do it now.” And then they all begin, taking turns, to tell their stories. Deep down, that story is almost always the same: agents from one agency, or several, broke into their homes after they had already left — almost all of them, to pick lemons. They took money, dishes, Tupperware, baptismal pendants, even three piggy banks, one in the form of a pig, another a dog, and one more a lamb.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-02-02/on-the-trail-of-el-botox-in-mexicos-citrus-growing-wall-street.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/PHWG7WWOTRGZNNDAPWCTYQB2LE.jpg?auth=671960289125a95b220e141ae0f31b703920437f391b5e4c9065a5279de93947" width="6000" height="4000" alt="Members of the National Guard, Mexican Army, and Civil Guard guard the lemon market in Apatzingán, as well as the lemon packing plants that receive the fruit for distribution in Apatzingán, Michoacán, on January 28, 2026."></img><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/SV3M3ZYSXFASDI55FEINQ7H4DA.JPG?auth=28b2c0e74aa305365176e16652fa5ebe81cf35f14dca0cbf065e5d41b20da666" width="6000" height="4000" alt="A worker in a lemon production field in the community of Cenobio Moreno."></img><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/AJJEEY33UZAT5ARJ7FSNNTU32A.jpg?auth=a6b28e3211657349536b415e4e7e864ab9cd3f8ddf451944042dea7013aef5ea" width="6000" height="4000" alt="Security operation at the lemon market in Apatzingán."></img> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-01-23/from-chickens-to-lemons-the-criminal-life-of-el-botox-michoacans-biggest-extortionist.html Fri, 23 Jan 2026 16:41:50 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-01-23/from-chickens-to-lemons-the-criminal-life-of-el-botox-michoacans-biggest-extortionist.html Pablo Ferri A top government target whose currency was violence, César Sepúlveda had become a key supplier and intermediary for much of the productive activity in Tierra Caliente A top government target whose currency was violence, César Sepúlveda had become a key supplier and intermediary for much of the productive activity in Tierra Caliente Michoacán Claudia Sheinbaum Jalisco SSPC Transfer of 'El Botox' to Mexico City. Transfer of 'El Botox' to Mexico City. <p>The helicopters over the Michoacán town of Cenobio Moreno, in the Apatzingán Valley, on Wednesday foreshadowed significant arrests by the Mexican government. Authorities were searching for César Sepúlveda, alias “El Bótox,” one of the most notorious figures in organized crime in the state, accused of more than a dozen extortions and murders, including that of <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-10-31/death-threats-and-terror-the-price-of-denouncing-extortion-for-michoacan-farmers.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-10-31/death-threats-and-terror-the-price-of-denouncing-extortion-for-michoacan-farmers.html">Bernardo Bravo</a>, leader of the local citrus growers’ association, at the end of last year. He was finally captured that night in the neighboring town of Santa Ana Amatlán. Two young men, nicknamed “Pánico” and “Greñas,” were with him. Cornered, El Bótox tried to escape through a window. Sepúlveda is now in prison, and the Claudia Sheinbaum administration has another victory to its name.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-01-23/from-chickens-to-lemons-the-criminal-life-of-el-botox-michoacans-biggest-extortionist.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-12-29/sinaloa-cartel-war-is-taking-its-toll-on-los-chapitos.html Mon, 29 Dec 2025 14:40:03 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-12-29/sinaloa-cartel-war-is-taking-its-toll-on-los-chapitos.html Marcos Vizcarra State action and the fight against the faction loyal to ‘El Mayo’ Zambada have resulted in high-profile arrests and murders that have dealt a blow to the sons of ‘El Chapo’ Guzmán State action and the fight against the faction loyal to ‘El Mayo’ Zambada have resulted in high-profile arrests and murders that have dealt a blow to the sons of ‘El Chapo’ Guzmán Ismael ‘El Mayo’ Zambada Joaquín Guzmán Loera "El Chapo" Sinaloa Los Chapitos Jalisco Washington D.C. Claudia Sheinbaum SSPC Barnabé Barraza and other arrested members of Los Chapitos. Barnabé Barraza and other arrested members of Los Chapitos. <p>There is no publicly available data to quantify this, nor is there an official statement drawing definitive conclusions about whether the internal war within the Sinaloa Cartel is tilting the playing field in favor of either of the two factions, <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-09-13/a-year-of-terror-in-sinaloa-inside-the-war-between-los-chapitos-and-los-mayos-in-mexicos-drug-heartland.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-09-13/a-year-of-terror-in-sinaloa-inside-the-war-between-los-chapitos-and-los-mayos-in-mexicos-drug-heartland.html">Los Chapitos or La Mayiza</a>, which have been fighting for over a year following the <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-12-04/us-role-in-kidnapping-of-el-mayo-zambada-by-los-chapitos-placed-under-scrutiny.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-12-04/us-role-in-kidnapping-of-el-mayo-zambada-by-los-chapitos-placed-under-scrutiny.html">arrest of Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada</a> in the United States. However, these past few months have dealt clear blows to the cartel’s structures, which, according to data from the U.S. government and the few leads from Mexican authorities, have diminished the power of the group led by Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán’s sons. The latest victim — assassinated in the heart of Mexico City — was “El Panu,” a hitman boss and one of the few remaining strongmen still active.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-12-29/sinaloa-cartel-war-is-taking-its-toll-on-los-chapitos.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-12-18/us-sanctions-against-jailed-cartel-leader-el-marro-highlight-mexicos-lack-of-control-over-its-prisons.html Thu, 18 Dec 2025 16:51:50 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-12-18/us-sanctions-against-jailed-cartel-leader-el-marro-highlight-mexicos-lack-of-control-over-its-prisons.html Pablo Ferri The Treasury Department notes that the boss of the Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel manages the group’s operations from prison and even forged an alliance with the Gulf Cartel while behind bars The Treasury Department notes that the boss of the Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel manages the group’s operations from prison and even forged an alliance with the Gulf Cartel while behind bars México Andrés Manuel López Obrador Michoacán Jalisco Guanajuato Claudia Sheinbaum Omar García Harfuch Los Zetas @FGEGUANAJUATO José Antonio Yépez, 'El Marro,' in 2020. José Antonio Yépez, 'El Marro,' in 2020. <p>The U.S. Treasury Department took a swipe at the Mexican prison system on Wednesday, disguised as a sanctions announcement against a criminal leader — one of many it reports each year. The Treasury explained that it has decided to sanction José Antonio Yépez Ortiz, alias “El Marro,” head of the <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-10-05/the-miracle-of-homicide-reduction-in-guanajuato-did-not-protect-jaqueline.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-10-05/the-miracle-of-homicide-reduction-in-guanajuato-did-not-protect-jaqueline.html">Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel</a> (CSRL), for his “industrial-scale” <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-11-21/washington-links-the-jensen-family-to-the-cjng-leadership-in-charge-of-fuel-theft.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-11-21/washington-links-the-jensen-family-to-the-cjng-leadership-in-charge-of-fuel-theft.html">fuel theft operation</a> in the state of Guanajuato, in central Mexico. Arrested in August 2020 and imprisoned since then, the U.S. government alleges that El Marro continues to run the criminal group from behind bars.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-12-18/us-sanctions-against-jailed-cartel-leader-el-marro-highlight-mexicos-lack-of-control-over-its-prisons.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p>