The long-term leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, was killed in a security operation on Feb 22. Universally known as “El Mencho,” Oseguera was one of the United States’ most wanted fugitives for drug trafficking. 

The drug cartel in Mexico has caused unrest and chaos for decades, eventually turning into an armed conflict against the Mexican government. Gradually emerging and expanding since the 20th century, cartel bootleggers have supplied the United States with drugs and alcohol, especially during the Prohibition movement and the rapid surge of drug usage following.

The CJNC was founded in 2009 by Oseguera and proceeded to conduct multiple instances of massacres since. This drug cartel organization is specifically known for its extreme violence and large operating capacity. The CJNG began shipping beyond Mexico to America, Europe and Asia.

After Mexican authorities found information on where El Mencho was believed to be hiding, the operation was carried out by forces like the National Guard and military aircraft. The forces surrounded his site of hiding in Tapalpa, opening fire on cartel gunmen, before opening fire on “El Mencho” during his attempted flee.

Immediately following the event of his death, chaos from cartel members sparked throughout Mexico. Gang members set infrastructure, planes, vehicles and streets aflame. The state of Jalisco became the most targeted state, but at least eight others have been affected as well.

Not only have these violent cartel riots shut down streets and businesses, but it has also blocked travel in and out of Mexico in many areas. Mexican citizens are unable to safely evacuate, and tourists have reported numerous cancelled flights and hotels.

The events in the targeted Mexican states have reached global attention.

“I think the media should cover more about what is happening in Mexico and tell more about global affairs,” said sophomore Kaya Davis.