Western Mexico CLASHES FOLLOWING CJNG LEADER DEATH: IMPLICATIONS FOR PORT SECURITY
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
- The death of CJNG leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes (“El Mencho”) on 22 February 2026 triggered coordinated violence and road blockades across western Mexico, raising short-term maritime security risk around key port surrounding areas.
- Port of Manzanillo, a core CJNG trafficking hub, saw conflicting suspension reports; local access disruptions show cartel capacity to influence port environments during leadership transition.
- Heightened insecurity in the states of Jalisco, Michoacán and Colima raises the risk of disruptions to port access, supply chains, and coastal transfer networks used for both commercial and illicit activities.
- Port of Veracruz remains a cartel-contested port, making it likely to face short- to medium-term escalation that could affect shipping security and cargo flows as rival groups attempt to challenge CJNG control.
CONTEXT
Members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of Mexico’s most powerful and violent criminal organisations, launched a wave of coordinated violence across several Mexican states following the death of its leader, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes (“El Mencho”), who was killed by Mexican security forces on 22 February 2026 after years of joint intelligence efforts by Mexico and the United States.
In retaliation, CJNG members carried out widespread narco-blockades and armed clashes with security forces across western and central Mexico…