Mexican Forces Kill 'El Mencho,' Sparking Cartel Backlash and Economic Disruption

The operation involved the Mexican army, air force, and an elite national guard unit. US intelligence, specifically the JITF-CC, provided supplementary information and helped map the cartel's networks, leveraging military experience against terrorist groups.

The intelligence gathering reportedly involved tracking a man linked to one of El Mencho's lovers, which led authorities to his secluded mountain compound. Following the raid, cartel groups retaliated across Mexico, blocking highways and setting cars ablaze, leading to significant casualties among National Guard members and other officials.