The recent death of Rubén Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho”, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), has sent shockwaves through Mexico and captured the attention of international media. However, beyond the confirmation of the operation’s success, a critical question lingers: how did authorities finally manage to track down one of the nation’s most elusive fugitives?
In the wake of the operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, intelligence circles are abuzz with theories of internal betrayal and shifting alliances. Analysts Ghaleb Krame and Tashiro Malekium suggest that the downfall of “El Mencho” was not merely a stroke of luck, but the result of a calculated strategic play, driven by information provided by his rivals.
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According to a report by Infobae citing specialized analysts, a central role in the operation was played by “Los Chapitos.” The report indicates that the group allegedly provided the critical intelligence that allowed security forces to pinpoint Oseguera Cervantes’ location. This information reportedly included detailed patterns of his movements and those of his daughter, suggesting a deliberate strategic move in the ongoing war between these two cartel gangs.
A key figure in facilitating this alleged intelligence handoff was Audias Flores Silva, known as “El Jardinero.” Described as a pivotal intermediary, Flores Silva is believed to have connected the Chapitos with elements close to the CJNG leader, laying the groundwork for the operation.
Further contributing to the intelligence windfall was the presence of Jesús Alfredo “Alfredillo” Guzmán in the vicinity of El Mencho’s operations. Sources suggest that Guzmán spent several weeks near a ranch owned by Oseguera Cervantes. This proximity allowed for the gathering of invaluable, detailed information regarding El Mencho’s daily habits, his inner circle, and specific vulnerabilities, including details about the private clinic he used to treat a chronic kidney condition. This granular level of intelligence was reportedly decisive, enabling authorities to plan and execute a precise, high-stakes operation.
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With the death of “El Mencho,” the spotlight has now shifted to the future of the CJNG’s leadership. Analysts point to Juan Carlos Valencia González, alias “El 03,” and the aforementioned Audias Flores Silva, “El Jardinero,” as the two primary figures now vying for control or poised to assume leadership of the powerful criminal organization.
