Quebecers in Puerto Vallarta Report Violence After Cartel Leader’s Death
- The popular tourist destination of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is experiencing significant unrest following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco...
- Reports from the region describe scenes of chaos, including vehicles set ablaze and heavy military presence.
- The violence follows a clash with federal authorities that resulted in the death of Oseguera Cervantes while he was being transported to Mexico City, according to a statement...
The popular tourist destination of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is experiencing significant unrest following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The violence, which erupted on , has impacted both residents and tourists, including a number of travelers from Quebec, Canada.
Reports from the region describe scenes of chaos, including vehicles set ablaze and heavy military presence. Quebecers currently in Puerto Vallarta have shared firsthand accounts of the escalating situation. Mélanie Caron described witnessing smoke and naval security forces, as well as a vehicle explosion. “I mostly saw smoke. I witnessed the navy providing security in front of our house. We saw a 45-footer explode, it caught fire right in our field of vision,” she stated.
The violence follows a clash with federal authorities that resulted in the death of Oseguera Cervantes while he was being transported to Mexico City, according to a statement from the Secretariat of National Defence. The aftermath has seen widespread outbreaks of violence across several parts of Mexico, as cartel affiliates respond to the loss of their leader.
Travelers have been advised to shelter in place, but some have been forced to venture out for essential supplies. Linda Lemire recounted needing to go to the grocery store for drinking water despite the warnings. She described deserted streets and observed army helicopters flying low over the coastline. “I saw an army helicopter crisscrossing the coast very low. This morning [lundi] I saw the police traveling on the 200. I think we are correct, but I am stressed, I am worried,” she shared.
Another Montreal resident, Étienne Beaumier, reported seeing smoke and a burning car, and confirmed being instructed to remain indoors. He expressed ongoing anxiety, particularly as his scheduled return flight to Montreal on , is now uncertain.
The situation highlights the inherent risks associated with travel to regions experiencing cartel activity. While Puerto Vallarta is a popular vacation spot, the sudden escalation of violence underscores the potential for instability and the importance of heeding travel advisories.
Authorities have issued warnings and suspended flights to the area. Air Transat, WestJet, and Air Canada have all temporarily halted flights to and from the affected region, including return flights for those already in Mexico. The Canadian government has strongly advised against non-essential travel to orange zones within Mexico.
The current situation is a reminder of the complex security challenges facing Mexico and the potential impact on both its citizens and international visitors. While the immediate violence appears to have subsided somewhat, as reported by travelers on , a sense of unease remains. Mélanie Caron noted the unsettling quiet, stating, “At the same time, it’s worrying that it’s quiet like this. We’re really into the action of the 200, here it’s usually super noisy. We are waiting for something, but we don’t know what.”
Travelers in the region are urged to remain vigilant, follow the instructions of local authorities, and stay informed about the evolving situation. The safety and well-being of those currently in Puerto Vallarta remain a primary concern.