Mexico's Sheinbaum: US only provided intelligence in El Mencho operation, no direct involvement

2026-02-24 - 07:12

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum clarified Monday that the United States played no direct role in the military operation that killed Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho," providing only intelligence support. Speaking at a press conference, Sheinbaum confirmed the country is under control and things have returned to normal following Sunday's operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco. Mexican-Led Operation Sheinbaum emphasized that the months leading up to the operation were carefully planned by Mexican security and intelligence forces. "All operations were carried out by federal forces. There was no participation by United States forces in the operation. What exists is extensive information sharing," she stated. Mexico's Secretary of National Defense, General Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, revealed authorities located Oseguera through contact with a romantic partner, with US intelligence providing additional corroborating information. Casualties and Aftermath Following the operation, Mexico witnessed violent reprisals across 20 states. Security authorities reported 252 road blockades, businesses set ablaze, and 27 assaults against authorities. In total, 34 suspected cartel members were killed and 70 arrested. Security forces suffered 25 National Guard members and one soldier killed. Sheinbaum stressed the situation is now "fully brought under control" with no further violence. Confirmation and Background Mexico's Attorney General's Office confirmed Oseguera's identity through forensic and DNA analysis. El Mencho had been sought by US and Mexican authorities for years, with rewards reaching $15 million from the US and $1.5 million from Mexico. The CJNG leader was fatally wounded after his security detail resisted violently during the apprehension attempt.