Mexican security forces have intensified their crackdown on organised crime following the killing of notorious cartel boss El Mencho. In a fresh development, authorities have eliminated his trusted aide, known as “El Tuli,” dealing another serious blow to the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The operation comes amid rising violence and uncertainty over who will now control one of Mexico’s most feared criminal organisations.
Officials say the back-to-back killings could weaken the cartel’s command structure. However, security experts warn that leadership struggles inside CJNG may trigger more bloodshed in the coming weeks.
Who Was ‘El Tuli’ & Why His Death Matters?
Hugo César Macías Ureña, widely known by his alias “El Tuli,” served as one of the most important figures inside the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Authorities described him as a key financial operator and logistics coordinator for the organisation.
Army kills ‘El Tuli’, El Mencho’s right-hand man who masterminded the post-boss-death violence, blockades & fires in Jalisco. He even put a 20k peso (~$1,200) bounty on soldiers’ heads. Killed in shootout while fleeing; troops seized ~$410K MXN + $965K USD cash + arsenal. Big… pic.twitter.com/qJrq4A5cqt
— Cartel Watch (@CartelWatchNet) February 23, 2026
Security officials said that “El Tuli” was the cartel leader’s top financial and logistics chief. While he did not formally stand next in line to lead the cartel, he played a central operational role. After El Mencho’s death, he reportedly stepped in to manage immediate cartel responses and maintain control over CJNG networks.
His elimination marks a major tactical success for Mexican forces, as he handled money flows, weapons procurement and strategic planning within the group.
Was El Tuli the Successor of El Mencho?
Despite his influence, authorities clarified that “El Tuli” was not officially named as El Mencho’s successor. However, he quickly assumed operational control after the cartel chief was killed.
His swift takeover of day-to-day activities led to speculation that he could emerge as a temporary leader or power broker within CJNG. Experts believe he acted more as a crisis manager rather than a long-term successor.
With both El Mencho and El Tuli now dead, the cartel faces a leadership vacuum. This situation could lead to internal rivalry among senior commanders and family members connected to the organisation.
What El Tuli Did After El Mencho’s Death?
Authorities stated that after El Mencho’s death, “El Tuli” orchestrated a violent retaliation campaign across multiple Mexican states.
Officials said he offered a bounty of 20,000 pesos (approximately $1,100 USD) for every member of the military or National Guard killed in a retaliatory attack. Investigators believe he used cartel funds to encourage coordinated attacks on security forces.
Violence spread quickly, with reports of road blockades, arson attacks, and gun battles. Authorities seized approximately 7.2 million pesos and $965,000 USD in cash, along with several firearms, after eliminating him. Security forces tracked him down in Jalisco, where he died during a military operation.
How Was El Mencho Killed?
El Mencho, whose real name was Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, died after sustaining severe injuries during a Mexican Army raid in the town of Tapalpa, Jalisco.
The operation reportedly received intelligence support from the United States. During the raid, security forces engaged in a firefight that left the cartel leader seriously wounded. He later died from those injuries.
El Mencho had built CJNG into one of the most powerful criminal organisations in the world. At one point, U.S. authorities offered a $15 million reward for information leading to his capture. His cartel controlled large-scale trafficking of fentanyl and methamphetamine into the United States.
Mexico Violence After El Mencho’s Death
El Mencho’s killing triggered immediate unrest across several regions of Mexico. Authorities said that at least 25 National Guard members were killed during retaliatory violence. Officials also confirmed that around 70 people died, including security forces, suspected cartel members and civilians caught in the chaos.
Videos circulating on social media showed burning vehicles, armed men on the streets and widespread panic in affected areas. The government responded by deploying additional troops to restore order.
Security analysts believe the recent killings of top CJNG leaders may weaken the cartel in the short term. However, they also warn that fragmentation inside the group could increase instability and spark new power struggles.
Who Will Succeed El Mencho?
The question of succession now dominates discussions about CJNG’s future. Reports suggest that Jessica Johanna Oseguera, one of El Mencho’s daughters and a U.S. citizen, could be among those considered in line of succession. Other potential figures include his stepson, Juan Carlos Valencia González and Gonzalo Mendoza Gaytán, another trusted associate known as “El Sapo.”
Authorities continue to monitor movements within the cartel, anticipating possible internal conflict. For now, Mexican forces claim significant victories against one of the country’s most violent criminal organisations. Whether these operations bring lasting stability remains uncertain as CJNG enters a new and unpredictable chapter.
What This Means for Mexico’s Security
The elimination of two top CJNG figures, El Mencho and El Tuli, represents a significant tactical victory for Mexican authorities. However, it may also mark the beginning of a new phase of cartel turmoil, with leadership disputes likely to fuel more violence.
The government’s deployment of additional troops and heightened security measures aims to prevent a broader escalation, but analysts warn that the power struggle could destabilise regions long dominated by CJNG influence.
