The state of Jalisco in Mexico will continue to be on high alert on Monday, as confirmed by the state governor on Sunday. This decision comes after a surge of violence in Puerto Vallarta following reports of the death of a prominent figure in one of the country’s major criminal organizations.
Puerto Vallarta, a renowned tourist spot on the Pacific coast, witnessed scenes of burning vehicles, with similar incidents reported in Guadalajara and other regions on Sunday. The unrest led to flight cancellations to and from Puerto Vallarta, with some flights diverting before reaching the city.
Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro, through a video message, declared the extension of the state’s emergency status, expressing hope for a return to normalcy soon. The state attorney general stated that 25 individuals were apprehended after a day marked by blockades, fires, and looting across Jalisco.
The violence escalated as federal authorities launched an operation to apprehend Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Oseguera Cervantes sustained fatal injuries in a confrontation with federal forces while being transported to Mexico City.
The operation began in Tapalpa, around 300 kilometers southeast of Puerto Vallarta, resulting in the death of four CJNG members and injuries to three others, including El Mencho, who all succumbed during transit. Additionally, two individuals were detained by the authorities.
Incidents of violence were also reported in several other states, including Michoacán, Guanajuato, Querétaro, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, and San Luis Potosi. While acknowledging the challenges, the federal government emphasized efforts to restore order.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum commended the security forces for their actions amidst the turmoil. The death of El Mencho, according to Gladys McCormick, a Latin American history professor, may trigger further violence due to power struggles within criminal factions.
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand expressed deep concern over the situation, with Canada closely monitoring developments. Global Affairs Canada updated its travel advisory for Jalisco, advising Canadians to exercise caution and follow local directives.
Canadian airlines, including Air Canada and WestJet, cancelled flights to Puerto Vallarta in response to the security concerns. Travelers like Tim Spencer, witnessing the chaos firsthand, described the city engulfed in smoke and disruptions to their travel plans due to the unrest.
