El Mencho Killing Triggers Mexico Travel Warnings, Flight Cancellations
El Mencho Killing Triggers Mexico Travel Warnings, Flight Cancellations
US and Canada issue travel advisories as El Mencho's death spurs security operations, roadblocks, and flight cancellations to PV, Guadalajara, and Manzanillo.
The U.S. State Department issued a shelter-in-place advisory for American citizens in parts of Mexico as security operations intensified after the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, the head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. The advisory cited ongoing roadblocks and criminal activity, urging travelers to stay indoors until further notice. Canada also said it was monitoring the situation and advised Canadians to keep a low profile and follow local authorities' guidance.
Air travel was disrupted as flight schedules were affected by the security situation. U.S. carriers United, American, Southwest and Alaska Airlines, along with Canadian carriers Air Canada and WestJet/Sunwing, announced cancellations to Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, and Manzanillo. Some aircraft even turned back midflight, and Southwest said it would deploy aircraft to Mexico to repatriate stranded passengers and staff once the situation normalizes.
Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, 59, better known as El Mencho, led one of Mexico’s most powerful drug cartels. He was injured in a clash with Mexican soldiers in the town of Tapalpa and died while being flown to Mexico City, the army said. He carried a $15 million U.S. bounty on his head.
The security operations prompted by his death prompted additional cautions from authorities. Canada urged Canadians in Michoacan, Guerrero, and Jalisco to shelter in place and follow local guidance. Separately, the Indian Embassy issued an advisory for its nationals in Mexico to avoid areas around law enforcement activity, seek shelter when advised, and stay tuned to local news updates.
In the travel sector, airlines and governments are watching closely to determine when normal flight operations can resume. Travelers should monitor flight statuses and heed official guidance as authorities continue security efforts across affected regions.
