LA MUERTE DEL MENCHO: Cronología del operativo contra el líder del CJNG | EL PAÍS
Operation Against Mencho: Key Developments
Initial Intelligence and Location of Mencho
- On February 20, military intelligence located a trusted associate of Mencho, who was taken to a facility in Tapalpa, Jalisco.
- Confirmation of Mencho's presence at the location occurred on February 22, prompting ground forces to prepare for his arrest.
Engagement and Violent Confrontation
- The operation aimed to encircle Mencho due to two outstanding warrants for organized crime; armed personnel were present.
- A violent confrontation ensued when security personnel opened fire on military forces, resulting in eight criminals killed during the exchange.
Pursuit and Tactical Response
- Following the initial attack, Mencho and his associates fled into a wooded area near Tapalpa.
- Special forces pursued them but faced gunfire from the criminals; fortunately, rocket launchers were not deployed against military personnel.
Helicopter Incident and Casualties
- A helicopter from an air mobility unit was hit during the engagement, forcing it to make an emergency landing in Sayula without injuries to military staff.
- After repelling further aggression, two more criminals were captured while Mencho sustained injuries along with two bodyguards.
Medical Evacuation and Outcome
- Military medical teams determined that evacuation was necessary for the injured; however, tragically, all three individuals (Mencho and his escorts) died en route to medical facilities.