This weekend, U.S. citizens were instructed by the U.S. State Department to shelter in place across Mexico due to ongoing security operations and related criminal activity that have caused widespread road blockages and disruptions to transportation networks. The warning states: “Due to ongoing, widespread security operations and related road blockages and criminal activity in many areas of Mexico, U.S. citizens should shelter in place until further notice.”
The alert specifically mentions that roadblocks have impacted airline operations in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, with taxi services suspended in Puerto Vallarta.
Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, a Jalisco cartel leader, was killed by Mexican authorities with assistance from U.S. intelligence agencies. In response to his death, cartels have launched violent campaigns that include torching buses, blocking highways, and killing 25 members of the Mexican National Guard in open combat.
The violence has affected nine states across Mexico, trapping thousands of American tourists. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated during a press conference that “peace, security and normalcy are being maintained” nationwide. Military reinforcements have been deployed to address the crisis.
These groups have been linked to fentanyl trafficking into U.S. communities.
Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs Mora Namdar noted that the Trump Administration prioritizes U.S. citizen safety.
