Mexico has deployed 10,000 troops to quell violent clashes triggered by the killing of the country’s most-wanted drug lord, authorities said on Monday.
Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, popularly known as “El Mencho,” was wounded on Sunday during a shootout with soldiers in Tapalpa, Jalisco state. The army said he died while being flown to Mexico City.
Oseguera was the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of Mexico’s most powerful and violent criminal groups. He had a $15 million bounty placed on him by the United States.
News of his death sparked widespread unrest, with suspected cartel members blocking roads in at least 20 states and setting vehicles and businesses ablaze.
Authorities reported that during the raid and subsequent clashes, at least 27 members of the security forces, 46 suspected criminals and one civilian were killed.
In Jalisco, a prison was attacked by armed groups, resulting in the escape of at least 23 inmates amid heavy gunfire, according to the state security secretary.
Fear spread quickly across affected areas, forcing residents indoors and tourists to remain inside their hotels. Although calm began returning to some areas on Monday, many businesses remained closed.
The government announced the deployment of an additional 2,500 troops to Jalisco, bringing the total number of security personnel mobilised since Sunday to 10,000. Jalisco is also one of the host states for this year’s FIFA World Cup.
In Aguililla, Michoacán state — Oseguera’s birthplace — residents reported early morning road blockades. Images circulating on social media showed thick black smoke rising above the mountainous community.
In Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco, schools were shut and most public transportation services were suspended. Long queues formed outside the few shops that opened, especially tortilla outlets, as residents rushed to stock up on essential supplies.
Pharmacies and several other businesses remained closed.
“I couldn’t sleep,” said Maria de Jesus Gonzalez, a resident of Guadalajara. “Now I’m a little more calm, but a little afraid, still.”
The Mexican government has yet to announce further security measures as authorities continue operations aimed at restoring order.
