Airport attacks, fires and roadblocks / Mexico in chaos after the killing of "El Mencho"

2026-02-22 22:46:00, Kosova & Bota CNA

Airport attacks, fires and roadblocks / Mexico in chaos after the killing of

Chaos, gunfire and terrified citizens running for cover are the scenes straight out of a movie unfolding in Mexico today. The unrest erupted after the army eliminated Nemesio Oseguera Ruben Cervantes, known as "El Mencho." He was the leader of the most powerful drug cartel, the Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG).

The news caused immediate and violent reactions, with numerous incidents, roadblocks and chaos at Guadalajara's international airport. According to Mexican media, "El Mencho" was killed in an operation by the armed forces in Jalisco, a stronghold of the cartel he led. The CJNG is considered one of the most powerful and violent criminal organizations internationally, with extensive activity in the trafficking of cocaine, fentanyl and other drugs to the United States and other countries.

The killing of "El Mencho" caused immediate mobilization by members and associates of the cartel. In some areas, mainly in the states of Jalisco and Guanajuato, attacks, burning of vehicles and blockades of main roads were recorded. Burnt trucks and buses were used to block roads, while clashes with security forces occurred. The situation at Guadalajara International Airport was out of control.

Airport attacks, fires and roadblocks / Mexico in chaos after the killing of

Reports of gunfire near the facility prompted the evacuation of terminals and the suspension of operations. Terrified travelers were forced to flee waiting areas in search of safe shelter. Chaos also erupted at Puerto Vallarta airport, where passengers were evacuated from waiting areas for fear of an escalation of violence. Authorities have increased their presence in strategic locations, trying to reestablish control.

Airport attacks, fires and roadblocks / Mexico in chaos after the killing of

Nemesio Oseguera Rubén Cervantes was on the list of the world's most wanted criminals. US authorities had offered a reward for his capture, with the reward exceeding $15 million. Under his leadership, the CJNG has developed into one of the most aggressive and rapidly growing criminal organizations in Mexico, with international drug trafficking networks and involvement in bloody conflicts with rival cartels and state forces. Mexico remains on high alert, with authorities trying to prevent further destabilization. /CNA