In 'El Mencho's' last redoubt, a crucifix, saint candles and a handwritten psalm

"The house inside an exclusive subdivision in southern Jalisco state contained a crucifix, as well as a makeshift altar with religious figurines of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Saint Jude Thaddeus and Saint Charbel Makhlouf, along with votive candles with images of saints. In the backyard, images of the Virgin and Saint Jude were carved into large rocks."

"Images of the house's inside captured by local media showed a handwritten copy of Psalm 91, which Catholics often invoke to ask God for protection from danger, fear and adversity. There were also letters, apparently written to Oseguera Cervantes and addressing him familiarly, that made reference to St. Jude, who has a following among criminals, drug users and the marginalized in Mexico."

"We cannot disentangle religion from violence, Acosta Rico said, noting that the world is full of such examples from the Bushido code of the samurai that included Buddhist beliefs to Italy's feared Cosa Nostra that often incorporated religious elements."

Mexican special forces killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho and leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, during an operation in Jalisco state. Items discovered in his final hideout revealed significant religious devotion, including crucifixes, altars with saints' figurines, votive candles, and a handwritten copy of Psalm 91. The residence contained images of the Virgin Mary and Saint Jude carved into rocks, along with letters addressing him in relation to Saint Jude, who holds particular significance among marginalized populations in Mexico. Researchers note that religious devotion among violent criminals is not unusual, as religion and violence have historically coexisted across various cultures and criminal organizations worldwide.

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