Dr. Nathan Jones of SWJ El Centro on El Mencho
Dr. Nathan Jones, Associate Professor of Security Studies at Sam Houston State University and Senior Fellow of SWJ El Centro, has recently been featured across major national and regional media outlets analyzing cartel violence, leadership decapitation, and the security implications of instability in Mexico.
His commentary comes amid heightened tensions following reports surrounding the status of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes (“El Mencho”), leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), and growing concerns about cartel influence, tourism security, and cross-border violence.
Below is a roundup of recent appearances:
New York Times – The Athletic
“Mexico Cartel Violence and FIFA World Cup Playoffs”
Dr. Jones analyzes how cartel-driven instability intersects with international sporting events and Mexico’s global image. He discusses criminal governance, reputational risk, and how organized crime violence can shape perceptions of state capacity ahead of high-profile global events.
KTVU-TV
Dr. Jones provides context on cartel dynamics, succession risks, and the operational behavior of CJNG in moments of leadership uncertainty.
CBS News Chicago
“Chicago-area residents in Puerto Vallarta amid El Mencho developments”
Dr. Jones discusses CJNG’s territorial influence in tourist corridors and what violence signaling means for American travelers and diaspora communities.
KTRK-TV (ABC13 Houston)
“Houstonians in Mexico recount unrest following death of cartel leader”
Dr. Jones examines how sudden shocks within criminal hierarchies can produce short-term instability, retaliatory violence, or strategic restraint depending on organizational structure.
Straight Arrow News
“Puerto Vallarta violence raises concerns for American tourists and expats”
Dr. Jones evaluates CJNG’s incentive structure regarding attacks in economically vital tourism hubs and the strategic logic behind calibrated violence.
Dr. Jones’ analysis highlights several enduring irregular warfare dynamics:
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Cartels function as hybrid criminal–political entities.
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Leadership targeting does not guarantee organizational collapse.
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Violence is often instrumental and communicative—not random.
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Tourist centers represent economically strategic terrain.
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Cross-border communities experience direct and psychological spillover effects.
As Mexico prepares for increased international visibility through major events and continued U.S.–Mexico security cooperation, understanding cartel strategic behavior remains essential.
We will update this post with more articles featuring Dr. Jones as we learn more.
The post Dr. Nathan Jones of SWJ El Centro on El Mencho appeared first on Small Wars Journal by Arizona State University.