Flights Suspended, Schools Closed in Jalisco and Nayarit Amid Unrest Following 'El Mencho' Killing

Cartel Leader 'El Mencho' Killed in Jalisco Operation

Mexican security forces confirmed the killing of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as 'El Mencho,' leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), on Sunday, February 22, 2026. The operation took place in Tapalpa, Jalisco, and resulted in a fierce shootout. According to Mexico's Ministry of Defense, El Mencho, 59, sustained fatal wounds during the raid and died while being airlifted to Mexico City. This significant blow to organized crime triggered immediate and widespread retaliatory violence across several Mexican states.

Widespread Disruptions in Jalisco and Nayarit

In the wake of the cartel leader's death, authorities in Jalisco and neighboring Nayarit ordered schools to remain closed on Monday, February 23, 2026, as a temporary precautionary measure. The state of Jalisco declared a 'Code Red' alert, urging residents to stay at home unless absolutely necessary. Public transportation services were also suspended in some areas of Jalisco.

Flight Cancellations and Travel Advisories Issued

The unrest severely impacted air travel, leading to numerous flight suspensions and cancellations at Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) and Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR). While airports remained technically open, road blockades and security concerns made access challenging. Several major airlines, including American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Air Canada, WestJet, AeroMexico, and Volaris, either canceled flights or issued travel advisories for the affected regions. The U.S. Department of State, along with Canadian and Indian embassies, issued 'shelter-in-place' advisories for their citizens in Jalisco and other impacted states.

Retaliatory Violence and Security Response

The killing of 'El Mencho' triggered a wave of retaliatory attacks by CJNG members, characterized by:

• Road blockades with burning vehicles across at least seven states.
• Attacks on security forces, resulting in the deaths of 25 National Guard members in Jalisco alone.
• Fires set at businesses and gas stations.

In response, Mexico deployed 2,500 reinforcement troops to strengthen security in the western part of the country. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum urged calm, stating that authorities had cleared most of the blockades.