Canada issues alert for violence in Jalisco after death of “El Mencho”
The Canadian government asked its citizens in Jalisco to avoid going out into the streets, while the airline Air Canada suspended its flights
The Government of Canada expressed on Sunday that it was “deeply alarmed” by the wave of violence registered in the Mexican state of Jalisco, after the death of the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias “El Mencho.”
Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand said in a statement that Ottawa is “closely monitoring the rapidly escalating and serious security situation” in the region, a major tourist destination for Canadian and American citizens.
According to Mexican government sources, Oseguera Cervantes, 56, died during a federal operation kilometers in the municipality of Tapalpa, located about 130 south of Guadalajara, the state capital.
Considered one of the most wanted criminals by Mexico and the United States, “El Mencho” had a multimillion-dollar reward offered for information leading to his capture.
The CJNG is identified by US authorities as one of the most powerful and violent criminal organizations in Mexico, with an international presence in drug trafficking.
Following the operation, armed clashes between security forces and criminal groups, roadblocks with burning vehicles, explosions, and attacks in various parts of the state. Canadian authorities reported that criminal groups established roadblocks in multiple cities, including Puerto Vallarta, one of the most popular beach destinations for North American tourists. According to the official notice, shootings and explosions were reported, stay-at-home orders were issued in some areas, and taxi and passenger transport services were suspended until further notice. The Canadian government asked its citizens to avoid going out and to remain attentive to the instructions of local authorities. Meanwhile, Air Canada, the country's main airline, temporarily suspended its flights to Puerto Vallarta due to the security situation. Other Canadian airlines adopted similar measures.
Puerto Vallarta is a key destination for travelers from Canada and also for thousands of residents in the United States, especially during the peak winter season.