Guadalajara World Cup safety pledge after El Mencho death as violence eases
Guadalajara World Cup safety pledge after El Mencho death as violence eases
Mexico pledges safety for World Cup visitors after El Mencho's death triggers violence, with troops deployed and Guadalajara gradually reopening as fans prepare for the games.
The dawn raid that killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, set off a wave of violence as gunmen attacked security forces and blocked major routes. The military confrontation left 25 soldiers and 34 cartel gunmen dead, with roadblocks reported on nearly 100 major roads and clashes in the states of Jalisco and Michoacán. Across the country, authorities braced for more unrest as security forces sought to restore order and protect civilians.
Guadalajara, which will host four World Cup games, remains at the center of the planning as authorities stress there are 'all the guarantees' for fans and players. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino said he was 'very reassured' about Mexico's hosting role, and venues in Monterrey and Mexico City are also involved in the tournament.
By Monday, violence had largely ebbed, though pockets of disruption lingered in rural municipalities. The government announced a deployment of about 10,000 troops to quell the unrest and to safeguard major cities. Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta began reopening gradually as authorities sought to reassure travelers and residents alike.
President Claudia Sheinbaum has signaled confidence in safety measures and even mentioned the possibility of taking legal action against tech billionaire Elon Musk; officials say safety plans and guarantees will remain in place as the World Cup approaches.
