Drone Reveals Aftermath of Cartel Rampage in Mexico's Puerto Vallarta
Last update: February 26, 2026
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Violence unleashed after the killing of cartel leader El-Mencho...
Jalisco's most popular tourist haven, Puerto Vallarta, was left devastated after cartel members rampaged through the city in response to the killing of Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) leader 'El Mencho'.
Drone footage captured on Monday February 23, 2026, showed the city's quiet streets, where several burnt cars were abandoned after the chaos. Many shops remain closed, while others stand with charred facades and scattered debris.
Puerto Vallarta resident Ernesto Ramos said the violence came as no surprise. He added that it was bound to happen 'sooner or later.'
State and federal authorities continued security operations across Jalisco and restored order. Federal and state forces stationed at strategic locations ensured the safety of residents and visitors.
Meanwhile, Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus announced on social media the activation of a Red Code in the region.
This suspended all nonessential activities, protected citizens and prevented further actions that threatened lives or property.
Sunday February 22, 2026 unrest was unleashed after CJNG leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as 'El Mencho', died while being transported to Mexico City after being injured in a federal operation which detained him. The operation left at least seven other suspected members of the group dead.
Cartel members reportedly blocked roads, torched vehicles and attacked businesses in a rampage that broke out through several states. Mexican authorities reported 252 cartel-led blockades across 20 states, with Jalisco recording the highest number.
According to the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection, 25 members of the National Guard and 30 members of organised crime were killed in Jalisco.
US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the United States provided intelligence support for the operation, describing El Mencho as a 'top target.'
Meanwhile, Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau labelled the cartel leader's death as a "great development for Mexico, the US, Latin America, and the world".
