Authorities in Jalisco state are assessing the security situation following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), on February 22, 2026. The cartel boss was fatally wounded in a confrontation with security forces in Tapalpa, Jalisco, bringing an end to a years-long manhunt.
A roughly 300-kilometer route from Guadalajara to Tapalpa, encompassing key areas of CJNG operations, saw minimal police and military presence until reaching Autlán, where patrols and a National Guard base were visible. As of Wednesday, February 24, 2026, most roadways along the route were clear, though crews were still removing burned vehicles at approximately ten locations.
Despite Governor Pablo Lemus lifting a “Red Code” security alert implemented Sunday in response to cartel violence, classes in municipalities between Tapalpa and Autlán will remain suspended until Monday, February 29, 2026. The decision reflects ongoing concerns about safety in the region.
Many towns and villages along the route, with the exception of larger municipalities like San Gabriel, Tonaya, El Grullo, and Autlán, appeared deserted on Wednesday, February 24, 2026, as residents sheltered in their homes. This route was commonly used by “El Mencho” to travel from southern Jalisco to his cabins in Tapalpa.
A clash between armed civilians and the National Guard in Tuxpan occurred Wednesday afternoon, with the extent of casualties remaining unknown at the time of reporting. This incident underscores the continued instability in the region despite the reported death of the cartel leader.
The mayor of Tuxpan, Claudia Gil, urged residents to stay home and announced the closure of access routes to the municipality due to security concerns.
Foto Víctor CamachoSupply Shortages in Tapalpa
A local resident reported that fear gave way to supply shortages in Tapalpa between Sunday and Tuesday, February 21-23, 2026, impacting the hundreds of tourists visiting the mountain town. Restaurants and shops were closed, and the presence of helicopters created a sense of unease among visitors.
Hundreds of tourists were stranded in hotels and cabins during the violence. The cartel’s operations originate approximately 160 kilometers southwest of Tapalpa in Villa Purificación, believed to be a key base of operations for “El Mencho” and the CJNG. In 2015, the CJNG downed an army helicopter in that municipality, killing at least nine soldiers and federal agents during an attempt to arrest the cartel boss.
The route to Tapalpa includes the “Rulfiana Route,” a valley west of the Fuego and Colima volcanoes, an area famously depicted in the works of Mexican author Juan Rulfo and his novel Pedro Páramo.
Foto Víctor CamachoNear Tapalpa, a strawberry farmer stated that the harvest was halted due to roadblocks and planned to resume on Thursday, February 26, 2026, when trucks were expected to arrive for transport.
Between Apango and San Gabriel, remnants of roadblocks were visible, with vehicles removed and potholes partially filled. The development suggests a deliberate attempt to allow some level of traffic flow.
In San Gabriel, and throughout the region, classes are suspended. The city’s official, Rigoberto Benavidez, acknowledged supply shortages and stated that the municipality was initially surrounded, restricting access until supplies could be delivered.
A scene at a local welfare office encapsulates the situation: a woman on a motorcycle, with two children, withdrew funds from an ATM at a building that had been completely burned, and destroyed.
Foto Víctor CamachoFurther along the road, near Cuatro Caminos, a burned-out Oxxo convenience store and two cars were visible. A young man with a radio was documenting the scene and photographing passing vehicles.
As the road approached Villa Purificación, conditions improved, with fewer burned vehicles and potholes. Gas stations remained open, and no roadblocks were present. This suggests a degree of respect for infrastructure on the part of the criminal groups.
The situation in El Grullo and Autlán was also better than in other areas, although five convenience stores were vandalized in Autlán. The attacks appeared selective, with routes left open to facilitate cartel operations and escape.
