The Rise of the CJNG: From Avocado Farms to Extermination Fields
The Discovery in Teuchitlán
The recent discovery of an extermination field in Teuchitlán has cast a grim spotlight on the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Search groups uncovered bone remains, approximately 400 pairs of shoes, suitcases, and other belongings of missing young people. This chilling find has intensified the focus on the CJNG and its notorious leader, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, better known as ‘El Mencho.’
The Hunt for ‘El Mencho’
‘El Mencho’ is one of the most wanted criminals by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), with a $15 million reward for information leading to his capture and prosecution. The U.S. government has been relentless in its pursuit, with accusations dating back to 2017 for his role in the distribution of synthetic drugs across the continent. The last accusation in 2022 included charges of manufacturing and distributing methamphetamines, cocaine, and fentanyl. Additionally, ‘El Mencho’ has been accused of smuggling arms into the United States, further complicating his criminal profile.
The Role of Extradition
In response to growing pressures from the U.S. government, particularly under the Trump administration, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has extradited 29 drug traffickers to the United States. This move aims to curb the smuggling of fentanyl and other illicit substances. However, the capture of ‘El Mencho’ remains a critical objective for U.S. authorities, given his extensive involvement in drug trafficking and arms smuggling.
The Early Years of ‘El Mencho’
Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes grew up in a small ranchería in Michoacán, cultivating avocados. His journey into the criminal underworld began when he emigrated to San Francisco, California. There, he started working with Abigael González Valencia, ‘El Cachetes,’ leader of the Millennium Cartel. Together, they built a methamphetamine distribution network. In 1992, at the age of 25, ‘El Mencho’ was arrested along with his brother Abraham Oseguera, known as ‘Don Rodo.’ Both were accused of involvement in a heroin distribution network. The U.S. Prosecutor’s Office sentenced ‘El Mencho’ to five years, but he was released on probation after three years and deported. Despite this, he found ways to return to the U.S. and continue his criminal activities.
Building the CJNG Empire
While in California, ‘El Mencho’ established relationships with members of U.S. gangs, recruiting them to join the CJNG. He also strengthened his ties with ‘The Cuinis,’ a group responsible for the financial operations of the CJNG. The turning point came in 2010 when the death of Ignacio Nacho Coronel led to internal conflicts within the Millennium Cartel. This power vacuum allowed ‘El Mencho’ to form the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, one of the most violent and powerful criminal organizations in Mexico.
The Future of the CJNG
As the CJNG continues to expand its operations, the future trends in this ongoing battle against organized crime are multifaceted. The discovery of extermination fields and the capture of key figures like ‘Don Rodo’ in April 2024 highlight the evolving tactics of law enforcement. However, the CJNG’s resilience and adaptability suggest that the fight against this cartel will be long and complex.
Table: Key Milestones in the CJNG’s Rise
| Year | Event | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 1992 | Arrest of ‘El Mencho’ and ‘Don Rodo’ in California | First major legal setback for ‘El Mencho’ |
| 2010 | Formation of the CJNG after the death of Ignacio Nacho Coronel | Establishment of the CJNG as a major criminal organization |
| 2017 | First U.S. government accusation against ‘El Mencho’ | Increased international scrutiny and pressure |
| 2022 | Latest accusation for manufacturing and distributing fentanyl | Heightened focus on the CJNG’s role in synthetic drug distribution |
| 2024 | Arrest of ‘Don Rodo’ in Jalisco | Significant blow to the CJNG’s leadership structure |
Did You Know?
The CJNG’s operations extend beyond drug trafficking to include extortion, kidnapping, and human trafficking, making it a multifaceted threat to regional stability.
FAQ Section
How did ‘El Mencho’ escape from U.S. authorities after his arrest in 1992?
After serving three years of a five-year sentence, ‘El Mencho’ was released on probation and deported. However, he managed to return to the U.S. and continue his criminal activities, leveraging his connections and resources to evade authorities.
What is the significance of the discovery in Teuchitlán?
The discovery of an extermination field in Teuchitlán has brought renewed attention to the CJNG’s violent tactics and the scale of their operations, highlighting the urgent need for law enforcement intervention.
Why is the capture of ‘El Mencho’ crucial for the U.S.?
‘El Mencho’ is a key figure in the distribution of synthetic drugs and arms smuggling, making his capture essential for disrupting these illicit networks and enhancing border security.
What role does extradition play in the fight against the CJNG?
Extradition of drug traffickers to the U.S. is a strategic move to curb the flow of illicit substances and weaken the CJNG’s operational capabilities, aligning with U.S. efforts to combat fentanyl smuggling.
What are the future trends in the fight against the CJNG?
Future trends include increased international cooperation, enhanced surveillance technologies, and targeted operations against key figures within the CJNG. However, the cartel’s adaptability and resourcefulness pose significant challenges for law enforcement.
Pro Tip
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