Driving into Guadalajara days after a wave of cartel violence, the aftermath remains visible. Burnt-out vehicles line major roads and blackened stretches of highway mark where dozens of cars were set ablaze during a coordinated rampage attributed to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
The violence followed reports that the cartel’s leader, Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera, had been killed. The message from the group was unmistakable: with or without its chief, the CJNG retains the capacity to paralyse a major city and project power through fear.
Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, sought to calm concerns, saying in her daily press conference that order was being restored and praising the response of security forces. Yet the heavy presence of soldiers and police convoys across Guadalajara has done little to ease public anxiety. Streets remain quieter than usual, with many schools closed and small businesses temporarily shut.
Some residents, however, are trying to return to normal life. Café owner Anwar Montoya reopened his new business despite the unrest, saying financial obligations left him little choice. He described the day of violence as frightening and acknowledged lingering uncertainty about what may follow. Still, he hoped his café could offer a sense of safety for regular customers.
Among those visiting was local lawmaker Mariana Casillas, who argues the latest violence reflects a long-standing cycle in Mexico’s fight against organised crime. She points to nearly two decades of conflict since former president Felipe Calderón launched a military-led campaign against drug cartels in 2006.
According to Casillas, targeting high-profile cartel leaders has repeatedly triggered violent power struggles. She contends that without addressing structural issues such as poverty, weak institutions and limited opportunities for young people, the strategy will continue to fuel instability.
More than 60 funerals are reportedly being organised for both cartel members and National Guard personnel killed in the latest clashes. Security analysts warn that removing senior figures can create leadership vacuums, often resulting in internal disputes and territorial battles.
The unrest comes at a sensitive moment for Guadalajara, which is preparing to host matches during the upcoming FIFA World Cup. One anticipated fixture will see Spain face Uruguay at the city’s main stadium.
Some residents question whether the city is ready to guarantee safety for international visitors. Others worry that deeper crises, including the issue of tens of thousands of missing persons nationwide, remain unresolved. Many disappearances date back to the escalation of Mexico’s drug war in 2007, with victims often believed to have been forcibly recruited or killed by criminal groups.
The federal government insists security measures are in place and that there is no risk to fans. Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, has also expressed confidence in Mexico’s preparations.
For critics like Casillas, however, large sporting events cannot overshadow local demands for stability and justice. She argues that many residents are prioritising security, access to basic services and answers about missing loved ones over global celebrations.
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