What Happened
On February 22, 2026, Mexican cartel leader Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, was killed during a military raid in Tapalpa, Jalisco. The operation, backed by U.S. intelligence, resulted in a gunfight that left four cartel members dead on-site, while El Mencho and two others later succumbed to injuries in the hospital. The raid was initiated after authorities tracked a man linked to El Mencho’s girlfriend, leading to speculation about her involvement.
Why It Matters
The death of El Mencho has triggered a wave of violence across Mexico, with reports indicating that 25 National Guard members and 30 cartel members were killed in subsequent clashes. Amidst this turmoil, social media has focused on María Julissa, a popular influencer rumored to have connections to El Mencho. Allegations surfaced claiming she provided authorities with information leading to his capture, although these claims remain unverified.
What’s Next
María Julissa has publicly denied any involvement in the operation, asserting that the allegations are false and that manipulated images are being circulated online. As the situation unfolds, the Mexican government continues to address the violence stemming from El Mencho’s death, while Julissa’s social media presence remains under scrutiny.
