The city of Guadalajara, which is set to host four matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has reportedly witnessed a surge in violence less than four months before the tournament is scheduled to kick off.
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According to official confirmation from the Mexican government, a federal security operation resulted in the killing of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho,” the alleged leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and one of the world’s most powerful drug lords.
In the aftermath, armed criminal groups reportedly took control of parts of Guadalajara and other regions, setting up roadblocks and burning vehicles and businesses across multiple states, including Michoacán, Guanajuato, Colima, Nayarit, and Tamaulipas.
There were also reports of disruptions at Guadalajara’s airport, with videos circulating on social media showing passengers fleeing for safety as armed groups allegedly caused chaos in and around the facility. Authorities have since moved to restore order, deploying heavy security across affected areas.
“El Mencho” was among the most wanted fugitives by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, which had offered a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to his capture. In response to the unrest, residents in several affected areas have reportedly been advised to remain indoors.
With Mexico preparing to co-host the World Cup alongside the United States and Canada, the latest developments have intensified concerns over security planning ahead of the global tournament.
World football’s governing body, FIFA, is yet to issue an official statement on the situation.
