Mexican military kills El Mencho: Tourist hubs face panic as vehicles burn and airports see rush amid cartel fallout

On Sunday morning, the Mexican military carried out an operation that resulted in the death of Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, identified as the head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. He had long been listed among the most wanted criminals, with a $15 million bounty announced by the United States.

Authorities had linked his network to the trafficking of drugs, including fentanyl, across borders. The operation marked a significant moment in ongoing efforts targeting organized crime leadership.

Following the operation, unrest was reported across several locations, including Puerto Vallarta, where incidents disrupted normal activity. Visuals shared online showed smoke rising over the area, vehicles set on fire, and roads blocked.

Videos also captured scenes of movement inside airports, with passengers and workers reacting to the situation. Airline operations were affected, with Air Canada confirming flight cancellations.

The disruption extended beyond a single location, with incidents reported in other regions, including areas near the border. Images circulated showing burned vehicles obstructing roads in parts of Baja California.

In response to the unfolding situation, the United States Embassy and Consulates issued a public advisory urging citizens to remain indoors. The warning covered multiple regions, including Jalisco, Tamaulipas, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Nuevo León.

State authorities also issued guidance. Pablo Lemus Navarro stated that residents should stay at home until conditions stabilized, adding that local authorities were coordinating with federal forces involved in the operation.

The events had a direct impact on travel and tourism. Puerto Vallarta, known as a key entry point for visitors, experienced interruptions despite being more of a cruise destination than a surf hub. The surrounding region includes well-known coastal areas such as Punta Mita and Sayulita, which attract traveling surfers.

With roadblocks, fires, and security operations underway, movement across these areas was affected. Advisories from local operators also warned against travel in impacted regions, citing safety concerns and ongoing developments.

El Mencho’s killing triggered immediate unrest, disrupting travel and daily life as authorities issued warnings and worked to stabilize affected regions.