The Mexican state of Jalisco will continue to be on high alert on Monday as announced by its governor on Sunday. This decision comes after a day of unrest in Puerto Vallarta following the reported death of a top crime group leader.
Violence erupted in Puerto Vallarta, a popular tourist spot on the Pacific coast, with burning vehicles filling the sky. Similar incidents unfolded in Guadalajara, the state capital, and in various other regions on Sunday.
The state of emergency in Jalisco will persist, according to Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro, who expressed hope for a return to normalcy soon. The Attorney General’s office reported 25 arrests linked to blockades, fires, and looting, with 65 locations witnessing vehicle burnings.
Following a special forces operation to capture Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), violence escalated. Oseguera Cervantes was fatally wounded during a clash with federal authorities while being transported to Mexico City.
Federal authorities reported four CJNG members killed and three wounded during the operation, all succumbing to their injuries en route. Additionally, two individuals were taken into custody.
Incidents of violence were also reported in several other states, including Michoacán, Guanajuato, Querétaro, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, and San Luis Potosi. Efforts to restore order were initiated by the federal government, which cleared 17 out of 21 blockades in Jalisco.
Canadian officials expressed concern over the situation, with Global Affairs Canada updating its travel advisory for Jalisco. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand highlighted Canada’s close monitoring of the evolving security crisis.
Residents and tourists in Puerto Vallarta faced flight cancellations as airlines suspended operations due to the security issues. Travelers were advised to follow safety guidelines and instructions from local authorities.
The death of El Mencho may lead to increased violence, according to experts, as power struggles within criminal groups intensify. The situation remains volatile as authorities work to stabilize the region.