The Mexican Secretariat of National Defense (SEDENA) has released their first statement since today’s operation which resulted in the successful elimination of CJNG Cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as El Mencho, and the widespread violence that has followed in several states across Mexico. SEDENA provides additional detail about the operation which killed El Mencho:
“DEFENSA informs the public that, through central military intelligence efforts, from the National Intelligence Center and the Attorney General's Office (FEMDO), Special Forces of the Mexican Army planned and executed an operation in Tapalpa, Jal., in which various aircraft from the Air Force and the National Guard's Immediate Reaction Special Force intervened to achieve the detention of Ruben “N” (a) Mencho.
During this operation, military personnel were attacked, so in defense of their integrity they repelled the aggression, resulting in four members of the “CJNG” criminal group dead at the scene and three seriously injured, who lost their lives during their transfer via air to Mexico City; among the latter is Ruben “N” (a) Mencho, however, the corresponding authorities will handle the expert activities for their identification.
In addition to the above, two other members of this criminal organization were detained and various weaponry and armored vehicles were seized, including rocket launchers capable of downing aircraft and destroying armored vehicles.
Unfortunately during this military action, three members of the institution were injured, who were likewise transferred to healthcare facilities in Mexico City for their urgent medical attention.
It should be noted that, for the execution of this operation, in addition to the central military intelligence efforts, within the framework of bilateral coordination and cooperation with the USA, complementary information was provided by authorities from that country.
At this time, elements of the National Guard and troops from the Army in central Mexico and states adjacent to Jalisco are concentrating to reinforce the security of this federal entity.
With these actions, the Secretariat of National Defense reaffirms its commitment to contribute to the strengthening of Mexico's security.
Army, Air Force and National Guard, the Great Force of Mexico.”
