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Puerto Vallarta, Mexico: U.S. Citizens Urged to Shelter in Place Amid Security Operations
An urgent security advisory from the United States Embassy in Mexico has encouraged all American citizens in Puerto Vallarta, and the State of Jalisco, to stay where they are. The advisory states that visitors in the area can see increased cartel-related violence. The Embassy has issued its advisory as travel in that area has become more dangerous because of ongoing military activity and road closures. While the Jalisco area and Puerto Vallarta see many visitors, calm in the area has rapidly declined as a result of recent encounters between cartels and police.
Cartel Violence and Its Impact on the Region
The heightened security alert follows a violent clash between the Mexican Army and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of Mexico’s most powerful criminal organisations. The operation targeted Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho”, the notorious leader of the CJNG. His death has resulted in violent protests and road blockages, particularly in the Jalisco state area, which includes the Puerto Vallarta tourist destination. Videos shared on social media have shown smoke rising over the city and scenes of panic in parts of the coastal city.
As tensions mounted, reports indicated that the violence spread to surrounding areas, including Chapala and Guadalajara. Local authorities have been working to secure the region, but the unrest has disrupted both daily life and international travel. Affected regions are seeing significant traffic slowdowns, and the Puerto Vallarta International Airport has been temporarily impacted, though operations were later clarified as secure.
Travel and Transportation Disruptions
The shelter-in-place order has had significant implications for tourism and air travel. Airlines such as United Airlines and Air Canada temporarily suspended flights to and from Puerto Vallarta, citing safety concerns amid the rising violence and security uncertainty. The decision disrupted travel plans for many international visitors who were already en route or arriving at the airport.
Local transportation services including taxis and ride-sharing services have also been suspended as a result of the unrest. U.S. citizens, along with other tourists, are strongly advised to stay in their accommodations until conditions stabilize. This move is intended to avoid further risk and limit exposure to areas of active criminal activity. Canadian authorities have echoed the U.S. embassy’s warning, advising Canadians to shelter in place and reconsider travel plans to the affected areas.
U.S. Embassy Recommendations for U.S. Citizens
The U.S. Embassy has issued several important guidelines for American citizens in Puerto Vallarta and surrounding regions:
- Seek immediate shelter and remain in place until further updates are provided.
- Avoid crowds and any areas where law enforcement or criminal activity is present.
- Stay in touch with family and friends to inform them of your whereabouts, using phone or social media.
- Monitor local news and official updates to stay informed about the evolving situation.
Additionally, the alert notes that other Mexican states, including Tamaulipas, Michoacán, and Nuevo León, remain under high-level advisories due to ongoing cartel-related violence. The U.S. State Department has emphasized the importance of following all local directives to ensure safety.
Broader Security Context in Mexico
According to the U.S. State Department Travel Advisory, areas across Mexico continue to face high risks of violence, including homicide, kidnapping, and armed robbery in regions affected by organized crime. Despite these risks, the advisory does not issue a blanket ban on travel to Mexico, but recommends increased caution or reconsideration of travel to specific areas. Those who do travel to Mexico are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time alerts and security updates.
Local Impact and Community Response
Reports from local residents and travelers indicate that while some areas of Puerto Vallarta are experiencing heightened tension, parts of the city near the marina area remain relatively calm. Many tourists have opted to remain in their hotel accommodations, which have stepped up security to safeguard guests. The local community has been urging caution, with residents advised to stay indoors and minimize unnecessary movement. This uncertainty has made it challenging for businesses to operate normally in the area, though essential services remain open.
Looking Ahead: Safety Measures for Travelers
Events in Jalisco and Puerto Vallarta reveal the unstable and ever-changing crimnal security situations impacted by organized crime. The Mexican government tracks and responds to violence involving drug cartels. Nevertheless, advanced warning is provided to travelers. Stay informed and prioritize your safety. As violence involving drug cartels is highly volatile and unpredictable, tourists considering visiting Puerto Vallarta and other destinations in Jalisco, will likely have travel plans to be highly impacted and disrupted.
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