Jalisco’s Security Situation Stabilizing Following Violence
The Mexican government has announced that the security situation in Jalisco, a western state, is “stabilizing” after a surge in cartel-related violence following the death of notorious leader Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho.”
The Mexican Embassy in the U.S. mentioned that both federal and state authorities are making efforts to normalize the situation. This includes reopening transportation routes and restoring public services after there were targeted operations to address the riots.
As this update unfolds, the U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for Mexico remains elevated. Many travelers are facing disruptions, flight cancellations, and, as a result, some Americans are stranded in popular locations like Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara. There are reports of hundreds of U.S. citizens still unable to leave Mexico after the unrest.
“After the targeted operation in Jalisco, the security situation has stabilized,” the embassy posted on X. They went on to say that efforts are underway to reopen transportation corridors and to ensure the smooth restoration of public services.
Airline services are reportedly getting back on track, with Puerto Vallarta International Airport resuming its domestic flights. However, the embassy cautioned that certain local security measures would still persist while authorities work to restore full airport operations.
Officials are collaborating with international partners to uphold safety and stability at key transportation hubs and tourist spots. They’ve described the recent operation as part of a broader initiative aimed at decreasing violence throughout Mexico over the past few months.
The State Department currently lists Mexico under a Level 2 “high alert” travel advisory due to concerns over crime and kidnapping. While some regions in Mexico are marked with even higher caution levels—like Level 3 “Consider Travel” or Level 4 “Do Not Travel”—the situation can vary significantly from one area to another.
The advisory urges Americans to take precautions akin to those advised for U.S. government personnel. This includes avoiding travel between cities at night and using regulated transport options. There’s also an acknowledgment that emergency services might be limited in some locations.
In the aftermath of the violence, the State Department’s crisis hotline received numerous calls as Americans sought help. Oseguera Cervantes was killed during a U.S.-supported operation. In retaliation, the cartel reportedly set vehicles ablaze and erected barricades in Guadalajara, which affected the city’s international airport’s operations.
The U.S. government had previously labeled Oseguera Cervantes one of Mexico’s most wanted fugitives and offered up to $15 million for information leading to his arrest or conviction.
