Americans In Mexico Told To ‘Shelter In Place’ Amid Spike In Cartel Violence

Witnesses and tourists in Puerto Vallarta described scenes of stores being ransacked and pharmacies being burned as cartel members and other armed groups reacted to news of the operation. Some travelers reported being unable to leave the area amid heightened security and chaos.

Videos circulated on social media showed smoke rising over streets and vehicles on fire across the city. Some visitors said they were directed by local authorities to remain at their hotels or other secure locations as violence continued.

Mexican authorities said Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was killed during a military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, on Feb. 22. The cartel has been linked to widespread drug trafficking and criminal activity in Mexico and abroad.

The areas noted by the State Department include Jalisco State (including Puerto Vallarta, Chapala, and Guadalajara), Tamaulipas State (including Reynosa and other municipalities), parts of Michoacán State, Guerrero State, and Nuevo León State.

In the aftermath of the operation, roadblocks, burning vehicles, and other retaliatory actions were reported in Jalisco and other states, leading to increased insecurity in major cities and tourist destinations, including Puerto Vallarta, Chapala, and Guadalajara.

The U.S. Embassy’s advisory urged U.S. citizens in the affected areas — including parts of Jalisco, Tamaulipas, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Nuevo León — to remain in their residences or hotels, avoid crowds and law enforcement activity, and minimize travel until conditions stabilize.