By Micah Jonah, February 24, 2026
While Mexico’s military celebrated the killing of the notorious Nemesio Oseguera, known as El Mencho, other powerful cartel leaders remain at large, keeping the country on edge.
Here are some of the key fugitives still evading capture:
Ismael Zambada Sicairos (‘El Mayito Flaco’) – A senior figure in the Sinaloa Cartel and son of Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada. He has emerged as a key player in controlling drug distribution networks to the US.
Ivan Archivaldo Guzman Salazar (‘El Chapito’) – Son of jailed kingpin Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman, co-leads the Sinaloa Cartel and is believed to be orchestrating operations in fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine.
Fausto Isidro Meza Flores (‘El Chapo Isidro’) – Head of the Meza Flores cartel in Sinaloa and newly added to the FBI’s 10 Most Wanted list. He is wanted for drug trafficking, kidnapping, extortion, and murder.
Juan Reyes Mejia-Gonzalez (‘R-1’ or ‘Kiki’) – Senior member of the Gulf Cartel’s Los Rojos faction, wanted for coordinating international cocaine trafficking with a $15 million reward offered for information leading to his arrest.
Authorities warn that the death of a single cartel leader often sparks retaliatory attacks and violent power struggles, as rival factions jostle for control. Analysts say the killing of El Mencho has already prompted a wave of attacks, roadblocks, and unrest in several states.
Mexican security forces remain on high alert as the hunt continues for the country’s most wanted cartel figures, highlighting the ongoing challenge of combating organized crime in the region.
