The Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) has been one of the biggest, most powerful cartels in Mexico for years and is among the most violent and ruthless organizations around the globe. The CJNG is a drug cartel, supplying numerous countries, including the United States with illicit drugs. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the drug empire formed in 2011 and has been at large ever since.

On Feb. 22, 2026, the head of the CJNG, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, better known as “El Mencho”, was killed by Mexican security forces. Cervantes was the most wanted drug trafficker worldwide, and was considered the most dangerous man in Mexico. According to the New York Times, he was captured in Talpalpa, a small town in the state of Jalisco, where Cervantes’ cartel was formed. He was severely injured in the operation and died while being taken to Mexico City. 

Many people see this as a win for the Mexican government, especially as they have been trying to destabilize the cartel for years now. The Los Angeles Times states that with the death of Cervantes, U.S. President Donald Trump’s Administration might ease up on the  pressure on Mexico. In 2025, the CJNG was officially categorized as a foreign terrorist group by the White House. Trump has said that if Mexico stood defenseless against the unchecked power the cartel held, tariffs on Mexico would increase. The only problem is that the death of Cervantes sparked a massive outbreak of violence throughout Mexico. 

Members of CJNG have been lashing out, committing  arson, theft, and other antics to spread unrest and fear throughout the country. Hundreds of buildings have been set ablaze by the cartel in retaliation for their leader being killed. Roads have been blocked, businesses have been shut down, classes cancelled, sports games have been paused, and flights were diverted. 

Tourists and residents alike have expressed their fear, sheltering in their homes as destruction runs rampant through the streets. For now, the U.S. government urges people to “take shelter until further notice”, according to the New York Times. Numerous tourists are stranded in Guadalajara and cities surrounding it, since all airports are shut down. 

With the crime and fear spreading throughout Mexico, all people can do is do their best to stay safe and lay low until the government can gain control over the situation.