The governor of Jalisco, Mexico, announced on Sunday that the state will remain under a “code red” status, resulting in the closure of public transport and schools. The decision comes after a day of violence in Puerto Vallarta following the news of the death of a prominent crime group leader.
The skyline of Puerto Vallarta was darkened by smoke from burning vehicles, a disturbing sight in this popular tourist destination on the Pacific coast. Similar chaotic scenes unfolded in Guadalajara, the state capital, and other regions on Sunday.
In response to the unrest, several airlines canceled flights to and from Puerto Vallarta. Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro, in a video statement, confirmed the extension of the state of emergency, expressing hope for a return to normalcy soon.
The state attorney general reported that 25 individuals were arrested amidst a day marked by blockades, fires, and looting. The attorney general’s office disclosed that vehicles were set ablaze at 65 different locations across the state.
The violence escalated as federal authorities initiated a special forces operation to apprehend Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” the head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Oseguera Cervantes sustained fatal injuries during a confrontation with federal forces while being transported to Mexico City.
The federal government has made efforts to restore order, clearing 17 out of 21 blockades set up throughout Jalisco. The violence also spread to other states like Michoacán, Guanajuato, Querétaro, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, and San Luis Potosi.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum commended the security forces for their actions, asserting that most parts of the country were operating normally. However, Gladys McCormick, a Latin American history expert, warned that El Mencho’s death could trigger further violence due to power struggles within criminal groups.
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand expressed deep concern over the violence, highlighting Canada’s monitoring of the evolving security situation. Global Affairs Canada issued updated travel advisories for Jalisco, urging Canadians to exercise caution and follow local authorities’ instructions.
In Puerto Vallarta, Canadian tourists witnessed the chaos firsthand, with flights being canceled and a pervasive smell of smoke in the air. Air Canada and other airlines suspended operations at the Puerto Vallarta airport due to the security situation, leaving travelers stranded and anxious.