### The Rise of “El Sapo”: A Key Figure in the CJNG and a Potential Successor to “El Mencho”
Hugo Gonzalo Mendoza Gaytán, better known as “El Sapo” or “90,” has come into the spotlight as a leading figure within the powerful criminal organization, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Based in the Valles region of Jalisco, “El Sapo” heads the group responsible for managing forced recruitment centers for the cartel. These operations are crucial for the CJNG’s expansion and recruitment strategy, pulling in young individuals to become involved in their activities. With the health of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” reportedly in decline, “El Sapo” is regarded as a potential successor to lead the organization.
In May 2019, the United States government identified Mendoza Gaytán as a significant narcotics trafficker, placing him on a blacklist to prevent any American entities from conducting business with him. He has previously held the position of plaza boss for the CJNG in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, and his influence extends into Michoacán, Nayarit, and Baja California. His primary activities include drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and overseeing forced recruitment and training operations for the cartel.
Authorities linked Mendoza Gaytán to a recent law enforcement operation in Teuchitlán, and a previous incident in July 2024 led to the arrest of five individuals, charged with drug trafficking and illegal possession of firearms. These men, found with over five kilograms of methamphetamine and automatic weapons in a warehouse in Zapopan, admitted to being part of “El Sapo’s” faction.
Despite narrowly escaping capture in a 2012 Federal Security operation, Mendoza Gaytán continues to evade authorities. Meanwhile, the Mexican Attorney General’s Office is pursuing legal proceedings to seize funds from his mother, Josefina Caridad Gaytán, and brother, connected to bank accounts holding substantial sums of money.
### Increased Police Activity Against CJNG Branches
In recent developments, federal authorities carried out a series of raids on a number of suspected CJNG properties in Jalisco, including a high-profile search operation at a ranch in Teuchitlán. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to curb the cartel’s ability to recruit and train new members. Reports also indicate that federal operatives have dismantled several training camps in the area, further constraining the cartel’s operations.
The crackdown comes amidst growing international pressure for Mexico to combat organized crime and drug trafficking at its roots. As the CJNG remains one of the most formidable criminal syndicates, authorities are intensifying their efforts to disrupt their control and influence, particularly those purportedly led by potential leadership candidates like “El Sapo.”
These strategic raids aim not only to capture individuals involved but also to disband the infrastructure that facilitates the cartel’s illegal activities. The challenges remain significant, but each operation marks a step forward in combating one of Mexico’s most dangerous criminal organizations.