Following the confirmation of the death of “El Mencho” in Tapalpa, Mexico’s criminal map has entered a phase of high alert. The Jalisco Cartel – New Generation (CJNG) structure, known for its quasi-military discipline, now faces its acid test: will they be able to hold together or will they fragment into an internal war?
Here we present the names that are rumored to take control of the organization as Mencho’s successors.
1. Audias Flores Silva, “El Jardinero” (The operational successor)
For the intelligence agencies, he is the “02”.
For years, “El Jardinero” has been “Mencho’s” right-hand man and in charge of controlling the production of laboratories and arms trafficking.
His strength: He has the respect of the old guard and controls key territories such as Nayarit and Zacatecas.
The risk: Not being from the Oseguera family, his promotion could be seen as a betrayal by the sectors most loyal to the blood lineage.
2. Jessica Johanna Oseguera, “La Negra” (Financial Power)
Who is “La Negra”, the key woman who could take control of the CJNG after the death of “El Mencho”?
The name of Jessica Johanna Oseguera González, known as “La Negra”, became relevant in the media and in the analysis of the future of the criminal group, due to her relationship… pic.twitter.com/04SjduW2er
– FURIA TINTA.. (@Furia_Tinta) February 23, 2026
Despite her legal troubles in the past, “Mencho’s” eldest daughter has always been pointed to as the mastermind behind the cartel’s front companies and money laundering.
Her strength: She is the direct heir and has the legitimacy of the family name. Her approach is more entrepreneurial and logistical.
The risk: Operating from the shadows after having been on the DEA’s radar makes it difficult for him to lead on the battlefield.
Julio César Montero Pinzón, “El Tarjetas” (The son-in-law) 3.
🔹 BLOW TO CJNG: UNITED STATES SENTENCES “EL TARJETAS”, SON-IN-LAW OF “EL MENCHO”.
⚖️ A federal judge issued an 11-year prison sentence against Julio César Montero Pinzón, alias “El Tarjetas”.
👤 He is identified as a key player in the Jalisco Cartel Nueva structure… pic.twitter.com/RDWbqV5C6g
– Grupo Fórmula (@Radio_Formula) December 18, 2025
Married to Jessica Johanna, “El Tarjetas” is a figure who has quickly gained ground. He is said to be the trusted operator in the Guadalajara metropolitan area.
His strength: He represents the union between family and operations. He is young, ambitious and knows the distribution routes.
The danger of internal war
History has taught us that when a “capo” of this caliber falls, the cartel usually splits.
Security experts warn that if there is no quick agreement, the CJNG could fragment into smaller cells, sparking clashes in states such as Jalisco, Michoacan and Colima.
In addition, other rival criminal groups could try to take advantage of this moment of weakness to regain lost territory, putting federal authorities on high alert.
Filed under: Sucesores del Mencho
