Mexico extradites son of cartel leader to US
US Embassy in Mexico issues security warning for Jalisco after extradition in fear of cartel retaliation
MICHOACAN, Mexico
The Mexican government has extradited the son of the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel to the United States, where he will face drug charges.
The U.S. Embassy in Mexico released a security warning for the western state of Jalisco after Ruben Oseguera Gonzalez’s extradition in fear of the cartel’s retaliation.
“Following previous high-profile security operations, criminal groups operating in Jalisco have responded by taking retaliatory actions including an increase in anti-government rhetoric (banners and internet threats) and blockades inside the city and on interstate highways,” the warning reads.
Oseguera Gonzalez, known as “El Menchito” is the son of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” who is still on the run.
The Jalisco New Generation Cartel is comparatively younger than most well-known cartels, but it is one of the most powerful criminal organizations in Mexico.
It is known for ongoing turf battles with other criminal organizations and its particularly violent acts that made international news, including a 2011 massacre in Veracruz.
In its security warning, the U.S. embassy suggested that people "shelter in residences," minimize travel, and check the news before driving anywhere. The organization said U.S. citizens should also be cautious in the Guadalajara area, one of the cartel’s strongholds.
In October, the city of Culiacan, Sinaloa converted into chaos after the Mexican government arrested the son of infamous drug lord El Chapo. Cartel members set cars on fire, blocked city entrances, and began shooting in the streets.
In response, the Mexican government released the son back to the cartel.
The U.S. Embassy seemed to be preparing citizens for the possibility of this level of retaliation.
