There was unrest in Guadalajara, a 2026 World Cup host city, on Sunday after an operation meant to capture drug lord Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes resulted in his death. Oseguera Cervantes, alias “El Mencho”, who was the leader of the Jalisco New Generation cartel, was killed by the Mexican army, leading to violent scenes across the country.
The operation occurred roughly two hours from the city of Guadalajara. Per reports, Oseguera Cervantes was initially wounded and later died. The military operation in Jalisco resulted in roadblocks, and burning vehicles in parts of Guadalajara metropolitan area, as well as prison riots in Puerto Vallarta.
The Estadio Akron is due to host four group games at the 2026 World Cup this summer, including Mexico v South Korea on June 18 and Uruguay against Spain on June 26. Before then, New Caledonia, Jamaica, and DR Congo are set to participate in a World Cup playoff tournament at the same venue. The matches are due to take place March 26-28.
The violence that erupted in Guadalajara raises serious security concerns just over one month from the World Cup playoffs in Mexico.