C.I.A. Intelligence Helped Lead Mexican Authorities to ‘El Mencho’

The Central Intelligence Agency provided critical intelligence that helped Mexican special operation forces locate and kill Mexico's most wanted cartel boss 'El Mencho' during an operation on Sunday, according to a U.S. official and others with knowledge of the operation. Mexican officials revealed that the elusive drug kingpin was found by tracking one of his romantic partners, with the C.I.A. playing a pivotal role in gathering and sharing the necessary intelligence that pinpointed his location. 'El Mencho', whose real name is Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, is the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), considered one of the most powerful and violent drug trafficking organizations in Mexico, responsible for numerous kidnappings, extortions, and brutal murders across the country. The operation represents a significant victory in Mexico's long and bloody war against drug cartels, demonstrating the continued cooperation between U.S. and Mexican authorities in combating transnational criminal organizations that pose threats to both nations' security and stability.