Funeral Held for Notorious Mexican Drug Lord 'El Mencho' Amid Tense Security

Guadalajara. The funeral of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, 'El Mencho,' considered Mexico's most dangerous drug trafficker, was held in a grand yet tense atmosphere. The 59-year-old 'drug lord' was buried in a golden casket during his final farewell.

El Mencho died during treatment after being seriously injured in a confrontation with Mexico's special security forces in late February. He was the founder and leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), Mexico's most notorious and powerful cartel. The United States had placed a bounty of $15 million on his head.

Hundreds of people attended the funeral near Guadalajara, Mexico. A large bouquet shaped like a rooster, honoring El Mencho's hobby, became a topic of discussion during the ceremony. He was a great enthusiast of cockfighting.

According to the AFP news agency, five trucks were needed just to transport the tribute flowers received at the funeral. Most of these flowers were sent by unknown individuals. During the procession, traditional Mexican ranchero music and narcocorridos, songs praising drug traffickers, were played.

Widespread violence erupted in more than 20 Mexican states following El Mencho's death. A large contingent of National Guard security personnel was deployed at the funeral site after his supporters engaged in activities such as setting vehicles on fire and blocking roads.

This event is being viewed as a major success for the government of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. This action is considered significant, especially in the context of US President Donald Trump pressuring Mexico to control drug trafficking.

There is a risk that further violence could escalate in Mexico following the vacancy of leadership in this powerful cartel, which has tens of thousands of members. Security agencies are maintaining high alert, anticipating internal warfare among various factions within the cartel to take El Mencho's place.

Many attendees at the funeral used masks to conceal their identities. Local media outlets noted that El Mencho's grave appeared relatively modest compared to those of other notorious traffickers.