Puerto Vallarta, a city long celebrated for its beaches and tourism, has recently been shaken by cartel violence following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
His death during a military operation in Jalisco triggered chaos across the state. Cartel members set fire to buses, cars, and businesses, creating roadblocks and spreading fear in areas that normally welcome thousands of tourists.
Tourists in Puerto Vallarta were ordered to shelter in place as violence escalated. Global Affairs Canada issued a warning that criminal groups had set up burning roadblocks, and Mexican officials admitted that Jalisco, including Puerto Vallarta, was not safe for travel at the moment.
The U.S. State Department also urged American nationals in the region to remain inside hotels or residences until conditions improved.Click2Houston
The Mexican Ministry of Defense confirmed El Mencho’s death, stating he was wounded during a raid in Tapalpa and died while being flown to Mexico City. This announcement marked a turning point, as the cartel’s retaliation showed how deeply organized crime influences daily life in Jalisco.
Residents and foreigners alike described terrifying scenes. One American living in Puerto Vallarta said, “They ordered the people out of the vehicle at gunpoint,” recalling how cartel members stopped cars during the unrest.
At present, Puerto Vallarta is not considered safe from cartel violence. The state of Jalisco remains under “code red,” with Canadian airlines canceling flights and governments warning travelers to avoid the area. While the Mexican military has deployed forces to restore order, the situation highlights the fragile balance between tourism and cartel power.
Puerto Vallarta’s future safety depends on whether authorities can contain cartel influence. For now, official advisories make it clear: the city is not secure, and travelers should exercise extreme caution.
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