On Tuesday, June 16, 2026, Omar García Harfuch, Mexico’s Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection, confirmed that Juan Carlos Valencia González, identified as the stepson of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes—better known as “El Mencho”—is considered one of the strongest regional leaders within the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).

Following a military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, the Secretariat of National Defense precisely identified the cartel’s regional leaders and their territories. This intelligence was crucial in preventing an outbreak of extreme violence after the death of “El Mencho.”

García Harfuch also highlighted that arrests continue as part of ongoing efforts by the security cabinet, including the Defense and Navy forces. Several regional leaders still face arrest warrants, some with extradition orders.

The U.S. government currently offers a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to the capture of Juan Carlos Valencia González, who is the son of Rosalinda González Valencia, “El Mencho’s” former partner.

According to the U.S. Department of State’s Narcotics Rewards Program, Valencia González was formally charged on October 8, 2020, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. The charges include conspiracy and distribution of a controlled substance with the intent to illegally import it into the United States.

This ongoing crackdown on CJNG leadership reflects a coordinated effort to stabilize regions affected by cartel violence, underscoring the importance of targeted law enforcement strategies in Mexico’s fight against organized crime.