Widespread unrest has broken out across Mexico following reports that Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was killed during a military operation.

According to the Mexican Army, Oseguera and several of his top aides died on Sunday, February 22, during a coordinated operation in Jalisco aimed at capturing the cartel chief.

Authorities said the mission quickly escalated, triggering violent reprisals in multiple parts of the country.
Within hours of the announcement, armed groups reportedly set vehicles ablaze, mounted burning barricades on major highways, and clashed with security forces in at least six states, including Jalisco, Michoacán, Guanajuato, Tamaulipas, and Nayarit.

Major cities such as Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta were heavily affected, with key roads blocked and residents urged to remain indoors. Videos circulating online showed thick smoke rising above parts of Puerto Vallarta, heightening anxiety among locals and tourists.

The unrest also disrupted air travel. Scenes of panic were reported at Guadalajara International Airport, where travelers were seen seeking safety amid reports of nearby gunfire and security operations.

Several airlines, including Air Canada, United Airlines, Aeroméxico, and American Airlines, temporarily suspended flights to and from Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara as a precaution.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation as security forces work to restore order in affected regions.