Mexico City on Alert After ‘El Mencho’s’ Reported Death in Jalisco Operation
Mexico City, February 22 – The Mexico City Security and Peace Building Cabinet, led by Chief of Government Clara Brugada, convened this afternoon in a permanent session to undertake necessary preventive actions following an operation in Jalisco. This move is being coordinated with federal forces.
In her social media posts, the capital’s leader urged the public to remain calm and to seek information from official sources. She assured residents that the Secretariat of Citizen Security would provide updates on any significant events for the capital’s inhabitants. “We are working to guarantee prevention, security, and peace in the city,” Brugada stated.
Details of the Jalisco Operation
According to reports from federal authorities, Rubén Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias ‘El Mencho,’ the alleged leader of the Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG) cartel, and three other suspected members of the organization, were wounded and subsequently died while being transported by air to Mexico City after an operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco. During the afternoon, an ambulance from Forensic Services entered the facilities of the Special Prosecutor’s Office for Organized Crime (FEMDO) in the Cuauhtémoc borough.
Impact and Reactions in Mexico
The reported death of ‘El Mencho’ has had immediate repercussions across Mexico. In Guanajuato, 35 individuals were detained following the burning of 74 businesses and vehicles, leading to the suspension of classes throughout the state on Monday. The National Chamber of Freight Transport (Canacar) urged cargo transport operators to prioritize their physical integrity amidst the unrest. Ambassador Johnson acknowledged Mexico’s “professionalism” and “determination” following ‘El Mencho’s’ downfall. The Tax Administration Service (SAT) suspended in-person procedures and closed 20 modules in four states. The Mexico City International Airport (AICM) requested all personnel to attend work in civilian clothes after ‘El Mencho’s’ reported death, and at least 237 flights to and from Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, Manzanillo, and Tepic were canceled.
Mexico City’s Response and Ongoing Security Measures
While the immediate impact of the Jalisco operation was felt across several states, Mexico City authorities are focusing on preventive measures. The SSC confirmed the arrest of individuals involved in a vehicle burning incident on the Mexico-Cuernavaca highway, but stated there were no indications linking it to ‘El Mencho’s’ capture. Additionally, five alleged ‘montachoques’ (staged accident scammers) were arrested in Álvaro Obregón, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat local crime.
Despite the heightened security situation, other city services continue. Low temperatures and rain did not deter measles vaccinations at the Etiopía Metro station, where individuals could receive vaccinations without needing to present vaccination cards, identification, or proof of address.
The Mexico City government’s proactive stance, through the permanent security session and continuous communication, aims to reassure citizens and maintain order in the wake of significant national events.
Source: https://www.jornada.com.mx/noticia/2026/02/22/capital/clara-brugada-llama-a-la-calma-y-activa-sesion-permanente-de-seguridad-en-la-cdmx
