Fact Check: US Special Forces Did Not Lead Operation Against El Mencho

Debunking the El Mencho Operation Myth

• 💡 A rumor claiming US special forces led the operation that killed Mexican drug lord El Mencho spread rapidly on social media, originating from far-right influencer Laura Loomer.
• ⚠️ Both American and Mexican authorities have denied US military involvement in the raid itself, stating it was planned and executed by Mexican special forces.
• 🤝 While the US provided intelligence sharing as part of bilateral cooperation, no US military personnel were physically involved in the operation.

AI-Generated Images and Misinformation

• ✈️ An AI-generated photo showing an airplane on fire, falsely presented as retaliation by cartel members, was detected as 93.2% likely AI-generated.
• 🧩 Telltale signs of AI generation in the photo included unrecognizable language on a staircase and an illogical depiction of a person near a fire.
• 📸 Another image of Puerto Vallarta showing plumes of smoke and incinerated vehicles was also confirmed as fake, likely created with AI, despite verified footage showing actual violence.

Cartel Retaliation and Aftermath

• 💥 In response to El Mencho's death, cartel members did set up roadblocks and set fire to businesses and vehicles across 20 states, causing people to take shelter.
• ✈️ Flights were cancelled, and some areas, including Guadalajara airport, experienced disruptions, but the airport was not stormed by the cartel as falsely claimed.
• 🛡️ Mexican authorities deployed 2,500 troops to boost security and clear roadblocks, with the violence reportedly subsiding as control was regained.
• 😨 The spread of fake news and pictures exacerbated panic and fear among the population, compounding the terrifying experience for locals and tourists.