During the operation, four cartel members were killed, and El Mencho along with three others sustained serious injuries and died on the way to the hospital.
Additionally, two suspected cartel members were detained, and a significant amount of weapons was seized during the operation, including rocket launchers intended for destroying armored vehicles and aviation.
Following the news of the drug baron's death, riots broke out in several areas where protesters blocked roads and set vehicles on fire. The governor of Jalisco declared a "red" threat level and urged residents to stay home.
The President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, emphasized that security measures are being coordinated with local authorities. She noted that the military's actions were highly effective.
The United States also reacted to this news, calling El Mencho's death a "significant event" for all countries in the region. U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau congratulated Mexican security forces on the elimination of one of the most brutal drug barons.
Members of the CJNG cartel have intensified their activities, carrying out attacks and assaults throughout the state of Jalisco and beyond: they are setting fire to stores, pharmacies, and banks, hijacking vehicles, and attempting to block roads.
In some parts of Mexico, traffic has been paralyzed; for instance, the bus station in the northern part of the capital has suspended bus departures to the west due to blockades.
The authorities in Jalisco have canceled classes in schools, and the administration of the resort city of Puerto Vallarta has urged both residents and tourists to stay home and avoid unnecessary travel. The University of Guadalajara has also suspended its operations and warned citizens to stay safe.
The Mexican Football League canceled a match at the Corregidora Stadium due to security threats, and games in the Women's League were also canceled.
Air Canada has suspended its flights at Puerto Vallarta airport, where beaches and main roads have become targets of attacks and blockades following the news of El Mencho's death.
