The Jalisco state government affirmed on Saturday that the region “remains calm” despite circulating rumors of potential violence, spurred by unverified reports of criminal groups and the purported transfer of the body of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” to a cemetery in Zapopan.
“The Government of Jalisco informs that the state is calm and with its normal activities underway. Security corporations maintain their regular tasks and protocols,” the government stated on social media February 28, 2026.
The statement followed the spread of misinformation via WhatsApp chains alleging impending unrest, particularly linked to the burial of Oseguera Cervantes, who was killed in a military operation in the municipality of Tapalpa the previous Sunday. The operation itself triggered roadblocks and confrontations throughout the state, according to reports.
The Fiscalía General de la República (FGR) confirmed this morning that the body of “El Mencho” had been handed over to his family, nearly a week after his death.
Increased security presence was reported at the Santa Margarita and Aviación avenues cemetery in Zapopan, with elements of the Mexican Army and State Police conducting surveillance patrols in the area, anticipating potential security incidents.
Investigations following the February 5th arrest of Tequila’s mayor, Diego Rivera Navarro, alias “El Presidente,” revealed the presence of 13 criminal groups operating within Jalisco, according to the FGR. These include the Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG) with its cells Los Cuinis and Grupo Delta, the Sinaloa Cartel through Grupo Flechas, La Familia Michoacana, Beltrán Leyva via Los Mazatlecos or the Guasave Cartel, Los Viagras or La Nueva Familia Michoacana, the Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel, the Nueva Plaza Cartel, and Pájaros Sierra. Rivera Navarro was arrested on charges of extortion.
The FGR investigation also indicated that Rivera Navarro had allegedly employed individuals linked to the CJNG and Colombian nationals on the municipal payroll, suggesting protection of organized crime within the Tequila municipality. He had previously declared to authorities, in May 2025, that any investigation would uncover nothing incriminating.
The Jalisco government urged citizens to refrain from sharing unverified information on WhatsApp and to rely on official channels for updates.