Mexican special forces have killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.

Authorities say the operation took place in Jalisco state and sparked intense retaliatory violence. Cartel members reportedly blocked highways, set vehicles ablaze, and launched coordinated attacks across multiple regions. At least 25 members of Mexico’s National Guard were killed in six separate incidents.

Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch confirmed that about 30 suspected criminals were killed in Jalisco and four more in neighboring Michoacán. Additional casualties included a prison guard, a state prosecutor’s agent, and a civilian woman.

“El Mencho” had led one of Mexico’s most powerful trafficking networks, accused of smuggling fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine into the United States.

The White House confirmed intelligence support for the operation, while President Claudia Sheinbaum urged citizens to remain calm as authorities dismantled more than 250 roadblocks across 20 states.