U.S.–Mexico Security Cooperation

Mexico’s defense ministry says it has arrested a suspected logistics operator for the Jalisco New Generation Cartel who allegedly played a key role in the February 22, 2026 raid that fatally wounded cartel boss Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” a top U.S. law‑enforcement target with a $15 million DEA bounty. The suspect, identified as Jose N and nicknamed “El Pepe,” is accused of arranging transport for Oseguera’s romantic partner to a luxury cabin in Tapalpa, Jalisco, a rendezvous that Mexican military intelligence and U.S. intelligence reportedly used to pinpoint his location. Authorities say “El Pepe” was captured in Tlajomulco, Jalisco, and that drugs, weapons and a vehicle were seized. Oseguera’s killing during the elite‑troops raid and ensuing clashes left more than 70 people dead, including 25 Mexican National Guard members, and sparked cartel roadblocks, arson and attacks across 20 of Mexico’s 32 states. The arrest underscores that Mexican authorities, with U.S. assistance, are still pursuing CJNG’s command structure in the chaotic aftermath of taking down a kingpin whose organization has been a major supplier to the U.S. drug market.