Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus announced the full resumption of classes and commercial activity across the state on Wednesday, February 26th, following a period of heightened security measures activated in response to the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The “code red” protocol, implemented after the federal operation that resulted in Oseguera’s death, will be lifted, allowing a return to normal operations.
Governor Lemus emphasized the coordinated response between state and federal authorities in addressing the wave of violence that erupted following the announcement of El Mencho’s death on February 22nd. He specifically acknowledged the collaboration with Secretary of Security, Omar García Harfuch; Secretary of National Defense, Ricardo Trevilla Trejo; and Secretary of the Interior, Rosa Icela Rodríguez. “I recognize their determination for this operation, as well as their openness and willingness to coordinate and collaborate with the Government of Jalisco,” Lemus stated in a video message released by the state government.
The activation of the “code red” protocol involved the coordination of all security corporations across the state, responding to incidents in Guadalajara and other areas. According to Lemus, the priority throughout the crisis was to safeguard the security of citizens. He affirmed his commitment to continued collaboration with President Claudia Sheinbaum and her federal security cabinet.
Reports from Guadalajara indicated a series of violent acts following the news of El Mencho’s death, including the burning of vehicles and public transportation buses. Lemus described February 22nd as a “complex day for our country and our state,” and characterized the hours following the operation as “critical.”
The governor’s announcement follows calls for the state to guarantee transportation and security as Jalisco prepares to return to normalcy. While the immediate security threat appears to have subsided, the long-term implications of El Mencho’s death on the CJNG and the broader security landscape in Jalisco remain unclear.
