Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is experiencing a surge in cartel-related violence, prompting a shelter-in-place advisory and raising concerns for both residents and tourists. The unrest, triggered by the death of a prominent cartel leader, has led to widespread disruption, including burning vehicles, armed confrontations, and the closure of essential services.
The situation escalated on , following the killing of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). In response, cartel members have reportedly been targeting infrastructure and engaging in acts of arson and intimidation throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Several residents of the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area currently vacationing in Puerto Vallarta have shared their experiences, describing a rapidly deteriorating security situation. Pat Silver, a part-time resident of the Nuevo Vallarta resort community, told CP24 that she and her partner witnessed cartel members burning buses and cars, strategically blocking major intersections. “This is all in retribution for the Mexican military killing the head of that cartel,” Silver explained. She added that shops and transportation services have been suspended, and residents are being warned to remain indoors.
The disruption extends to critical infrastructure. Silver reported that friends are unable to access a local hospital due to roadblocks created by spikes placed on the streets. She also described witnessing fires at a local sports stadium and encountering individuals armed with AK47s. “We are being warned that there is a deadline around now for the military to release the son of El Mencho or cartel members will start going house to house. People have been told not to open their doors for anyone, even those claiming to be police,” Silver said.
Toronto resident Sandra Crowe recounted a frightening experience while cycling in the city. She described encountering plumes of smoke and hearing the word “cartel” before being forced to navigate through streets blocked by burning vehicles. “I still didn’t think much of it until there was a loud sound and people started running,” Crowe said. She ultimately made it back to her accommodation after a harrowing hour-long journey, witnessing deserted streets and shuttered businesses along the way.
The Puerto Vallarta airport was temporarily closed on , forcing flights to divert to Cabo San Lucas and Guadalajara, or return to their origin. Silver anticipates the airport will remain closed on .
Martha Chomyn, another Toronto resident currently in Puerto Vallarta, described waking up to the sound of screeching tires and discovering a burning bus blocking the road outside her balcony. “I think the was the first indication that something was wrong,” Chomyn stated. She and her husband are scheduled to fly back to Canada on , and are hoping the situation will have calmed by then.
Chomyn emphasized the initial confusion and fear as residents struggled to understand the unfolding events. “It was really scary getting the breaking news that the cartels were here,” she said, adding that she observed army helicopters and vehicles patrolling the streets. She and her husband initially sheltered in their washroom before connecting with neighbors and seeking information online.
While the situation remains volatile, residents like Silver and Crowe are currently safe in their gated communities. Both have registered with the Canadian Consulate to receive updates and provide their location. Crowe, who has spent three months of each year in Puerto Vallarta for several years, noted that the city is generally considered a safe destination, but acknowledged the current unrest is unusual. She is considering returning to Canada earlier than planned if the situation does not improve.
The escalation of violence in Puerto Vallarta underscores the ongoing challenges Mexico faces in combating powerful drug cartels. The CJNG, in particular, has become increasingly brazen in recent years, expanding its operations and challenging the authority of the state. The current unrest serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with cartel activity and the potential for sudden and widespread disruption.
The Canadian government has not yet issued a formal travel advisory beyond encouraging citizens to exercise a high degree of caution. However, the situation is evolving rapidly, and Canadians in the region are advised to monitor local news and follow the guidance of authorities. The consulate is providing assistance to Canadians in Puerto Vallarta, but the extent of support may be limited by the ongoing security concerns.
