Mexico has deployed thousands of additional soldiers to restore order after the death of a powerful drug lord triggered widespread violence across the country, officials have confirmed.
Defence Secretary Ricardo Trevilla announced that an extra 2,500 soldiers were sent to western Mexico on Monday, bringing the total number of troops deployed since Sunday to approximately 9,500.
The reinforcements come as at least 20 states have experienced unrest following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the feared Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
El Mencho, Mexico’s most wanted man, died in custody on Sunday shortly after being captured by special forces in Jalisco state. According to Defence Secretary Trevilla, the drug lord was tracked down through a romantic partner he was meeting.
He sustained serious injuries during a firefight between his bodyguards and the military commandos attempting to capture him, and died while being transported from the town of Tapalpa to Mexico City.
At least six of El Mencho’s security guards were killed in the operation, while three members of the Mexican military were injured.
The violence following his death has been severe, with Mexico’s security minister confirming that at least 25 members of the National Guard have died in Jalisco state alone since the unrest began.
