The New Generation Jalisco Cartel’s brutal backlash following the demise of its leader has resulted in the tragic loss of at least 25 Mexican national guard members, authorities reported on Monday. This wave of violence highlights the ongoing dangers faced by Mexico’s security forces in their battle against powerful drug cartels.

Defense Minister Ricardo Trevilla was visibly emotional as he conveyed the grim news of the attacks. These strikes were a direct response from the cartel after the death of their leader, Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, who was killed in a bold military operation.

During a press conference, Mexico’s Security Secretary, Omar García Harfuch, described the attacks on the military as “27 cowardly assaults” within the state of Jalisco. In addition to the loss of national guard members, 30 cartel members were reportedly killed in the ensuing violence.

The military raid that led to Oseguera’s death occurred at his heavily defended compound in Jalisco, sparking a wave of retribution from the cartel, known as one of Mexico’s most dangerous criminal organizations. In retaliation, cartel members orchestrated more than 250 roadblocks spanning 20 states, targeting both military personnel and law enforcement officials.

Tragically, the violence extended beyond the national guard, claiming the lives of a prison guard, a state prosecutor’s office agent, and an innocent female bystander. Harfuch shared these somber details with reporters, underscoring the indiscriminate nature of the cartel’s wrath.

Along with the national huard members, the cartel killed a prison guard, an agent from the state prosecutor’s office and a female bystander, Harfuch told reporters.  

The Jalisco cartel is Mexico’s most aggressive gang and has access to heavy weapons, rocket launchers, drones and mines. 

Local and foreign governments have warned their citizens to stay inside as a result of the violence, with several Mexican states canceling school on Monday. 

The US Embassy urged its personnel in eight cities and the state of Michoacan to shelter in place and work remotely Monday, adding that citizens in many parts of Mexico should do the same.  

President Claudia Sheinbaum said the cartel’s roadblocks have been cleared, with Mexican authorities arresting more than 70 people across seven states as part of a crackdown to restore order. 

“We are closely monitoring for any kind of reaction or restructuring within the cartel that could lead to violence,” Harfuch said.

“El Mencho” was notorious for trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine to the US and a reward of up to $15 million was available for information leading to the drug lord’s arrest.

With Post wires