Photo: Nicole Mastrogiannis
A popular Mexican resort was under siege after Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera Cervantes was killed in a military raid, authorities announced on Sunday (February 22) via the New York Post.
Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro announced that much of the area was in a "code red" alert in a post shared on his X account.
“Federal forces carried out an operation in Tapalpa a few hours ago, which has led to clashes in the area,” Navarro said. “Also as a result of said operation in various points of that region and in other parts of Jalisco, individuals have burned and blocked vehicles with the aim of hindering the actions of authorities.”
Tourists in Puerto Vallarta were advised to stay indoors after narco gangs last out following Cervantes' death. The United States Department urged American tourists visiting the area to shelter in place amid the threat of being trapped in the region.
“We are here at a hotel in the hotel zone,” a stranded tourist wrote in a post shared online. “Staying put until we get the all clear. All of the businesses in the area have closed.”
Flights to Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara airports were reportedly diverted as major airlines canceled flights. Gunfire was reported at Guadalajara International Airport, which included a video shared online showing what appeared to be passengers frantically running for shelter.
The Pacific Airport Group said that the Mexican National Guard had been dispatched to the popular airport, but claimed it continued to operate as usual.
“It is important to clarify that no incidents have been reported inside the facilities, and there is no risk to passengers, staff or visitors,” the airport said in a statement obtained by the New York Post. “The information and material circulating on social media do not correspond with any danger at the terminals, rather to the panic among passengers.
Cervantes, 53, a former police officer, rose to become one of Mexico's most feared cartel bosses after former leader Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman was arrested by American authorities and later convicted. The former drug pin was killed in Talapa in Jalisco during a raid by Mexican forces over the weekend.
“During this operation, military personnel were attacked, so indefense of their integrity, they repelled the aggression, resulting in four members of the CJNG criminal group being killed at the scene and three seriously injured who lost their lives during their transfer by air to Mexico City,” Mexican defense officials said in a statement obtained by the New York Post.