Mexico sends thousands of soldiers to stop violence after death of drug lord

MEXICO: Mexico has deployed thousands of soldiers to bolster security, the country’s security minister has said, after a wave of violence erupted following the death of a powerful drug lord.

Defence Secretary Ricardo Trevilla said an extra 2,500 soldiers had been sent to western Mexico on Monday, with the government saying about 9,500 troops have been deployed overall since Sunday.

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At least 20 states have seen unrest since Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes – better known as “El Mencho” – died in custody on Sunday shortly after being captured by Mexican special forces in Jalisco state.

The Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) is one of Mexico’s most feared criminal organisations and its leader was the country’s most wanted man.