El Mencho Killed: Chaos broke out at Mexico’s Guadalajara International Airport when violence linked to cartel activity reached the busy transport hub, sending travellers scrambling for cover. Videos on X captured scenes of frightened passengers clutching their bags as they hurried through exits, while others hid behind service desks to protect themselves. Gunmen could be seen firing inside the airport terminal.
The panic began when suspected members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) forced their way into the airport following the killing of the leader of the CJNG, Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, "El Mencho" by the Mexican army on Sunday. Reports also indicated that vehicles, including cars and buses, were set ablaze during the unrest.
Unrest Across Jalisco
Violence spread beyond the airport, reaching the Pacific resort of Puerto Vallarta and other areas across the state of Jalisco.
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As tensions intensified in Puerto Vallarta, multiple Oxxo stores and other businesses were torched, leaving visible damage across the city.
The wave of attacks led to companies closing their doors, while visitors remained inside their hotels amid safety concerns. Authorities in Jalisco later announced that schools would stay shut on Monday as panic and fear gripped the region.
Travel Advisories Issued
Several countries, including the US, Canada, and India, have issued travel advisories for Mexico amid a massive rampage.
The US State Department warned US citizens in Jalisco, Tamaulipas, Michoacan, Guerrero and Nuevo Leon states to remain in safe places due to the ongoing security operations. Canada’s embassy in Mexico warned its citizens in Puerto Vallarta to shelter in place and generally to keep a low profile in Jalisco. Jalisco Gov. Pablo Lemus told residents to stay at home and suspended public transportation.