Travel Advisory Issued: Tourists Stranded After the Killing of Drug Cartel Leader El Mencho

Tourists from various countries are stranded as violence has broken out in parts of Mexico. Violence broke out in response to Mexican security forces killing El Mencho – the head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. The US State Department has also issued a travel advisory asking US citizens to shelter in place. Moreover, individual states like Texas have also put out their own advisories for people from the state who may be stranded in Mexico during this time. 

Travel Advisory Issued as Violence Erupts

The violence has erupted in retaliation to the killing of El Mencho. As per CNN, over 250 blockades are in place across 20 Mexican states.

Wave of violence: The killing sparked widespread unrest, with suspected gang members torching buses and businesses while clashing with security forces. More than 250 blockades were reported across 20 Mexican states, Mexico’s Security Cabinet said, with most roadblocks now cleared.

The US Government also provided intelligence support for the operation.

Multiple countries have already issued travel advisories. As per the latest travel advisory from the State Department, The US State Department has requested US citizens in Mexico to shelter in place.

Actions to Take:

• Avoid areas around law enforcement activity.

• Be aware of your surroundings.

• Seek shelter and minimize unnecessary movements

• Monitor local media for updates.

• Follow the directions of local authorities and in case of emergency, call 911.

• Avoid crowds.

• Keep family and friends advised of your location and well-being via phone, text, and social media.

The Pundit’s Mantra

At the moment, if you’re in Mexico as a tourist, it’s best to  follow your government’s advisory before you plan next steps. As reports show, gangs, in retaliation, have destroyed a lot of public and private infrastructure, with videos surfacing of a Costco location also set ablaze. However, at the moment, there are no credible reports about any tourists being targeted or harmed during the retaliation by the cartels.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________