The US State Department has issued a notice advising American citizens in certain areas of Mexico to remain indoors due to violence, road closures, and flight disruptions following the death of a prominent cartel leader at the hands of Mexican soldiers.
In a statement posted on social media, the department’s Consular Affairs division highlighted the need for US citizens to shelter in place until further instructions are provided. The ongoing security operations, roadblocks, and criminal activities across various parts of Mexico have prompted this precautionary measure.
The recent clash between soldiers and Nemesio Oseguera, the 59-year-old head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, resulted in his demise while being transferred to Mexico City after sustaining injuries in Tapalpa. Oseguera, who had a $15 million US bounty on him, was a significant figure in the cartel landscape.
Canada has also been closely monitoring the situation and has advised its citizens in Mexico to maintain a low profile and adhere to the guidance of local authorities. Specifically, individuals in Michoacan, Guerrero, and Jalisco states are urged to stay put due to the reported confrontations with security forces and explosive incidents.
In response to the unrest, multiple US and Canadian airlines have canceled flights to various parts of Mexico. Carriers such as United, American, Southwest, Alaska, Air Canada, and WestJet/Sunwing have announced flight cancellations to destinations including Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, and Manzanillo.
Several airlines reported having to divert flights back to their origin due to the prevailing circumstances. Southwest, for instance, redirected four flights that were en route to Puerto Vallarta. The airline has assured passengers and staff affected by the cancellations that they will be repatriated once the situation stabilizes by deploying aircraft to Mexico.
