US, Canada Issue Travel Warnings for Mexico After Drug Kingpin Killing
- 19 hours ago
- 2 min read
The governments of the United States and Canada have issued travel alerts for parts of Mexico following a surge in violence triggered by the killing of a prominent cartel leader.
The United States Department of State advised American citizens in affected regions to remain indoors due to widespread security operations, roadblocks, and reported criminal activity. Authorities warned that the unrest has disrupted transportation networks in several cities.
Air travel has been significantly impacted, with flight cancellations reported at airports in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta. Some domestic and international routes were suspended as security forces intensified operations.
The violence followed a confrontation between Mexican troops and Nemesio Oseguera, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. The 59-year-old was reportedly wounded during a clash in Tapalpa and later died while being transported to Mexico City. He had been the subject of a $15 million U.S. reward.
Canadian authorities said they are closely monitoring the situation and urged their citizens in Mexico to stay alert, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow local directives. Canadians in Michoacán, Guerrero, and Jalisco states were specifically advised to shelter in place amid reports of gunfire and explosions.
Major airlines from both countries responded swiftly. U.S. carriers including United Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Alaska Airlines suspended flights to destinations such as Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, and Manzanillo. Canadian operators Air Canada and WestJet also cancelled services.
Several flights already en route to Mexico were diverted midair. Southwest confirmed that four aircraft bound for Puerto Vallarta were turned back and indicated plans to resume operations and retrieve stranded passengers once conditions stabilise.
Authorities in Mexico continue to conduct security operations as tensions remain high in parts of the country.
Comments