U.S. Issues Shelter-in-Place Warnings for Popular Tourist Destinations in Mexico After Major Cartel Leader Is Killed

The U.S. Department of State has issued shelter-in-place advisories for American citizens in multiple regions of Mexico following escalating security concerns.

The alert, released Sunday, Feb. 22, applies to several states, including Jalisco — home to major tourist destinations such as Puerto Vallarta, Chapala, and Guadalajara — as well as Tamaulipas, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Nuevo León.

“Due to ongoing security operations, related road blockages, and criminal activity, U.S. citizens in the named locations should shelter in place until further notice,” the department stated.

Officials urged Americans in affected areas to avoid locations with visible law enforcement activity, stay away from crowds, and minimize nonessential travel.

Neither the U.S. Department of State nor Mexico’s Ministry of National Defense immediately responded to requests for additional comment.

The advisory follows a military operation launched by Mexican authorities targeting the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of the country’s most powerful criminal organizations.

According to a statement from Mexico’s Ministry of National Defense, military personnel came under attack during the operation and responded with defensive force. Authorities reported that the confrontation resulted in the death of Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, the alleged leader of the CJNG, along with six other cartel members.

Three members of the Mexican military were injured during the clashes, the ministry said.

In a message posted on X, Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro said the operation sparked violent incidents across the state. He reported that individuals set vehicles on fire and blocked roads in an attempt to disrupt law enforcement efforts.

Navarro said state officials were coordinating with federal and local authorities and had activated a “code red” security response to protect residents.

The governor later announced the cancellation of major public events and confirmed that in-person classes statewide would be suspended on Monday, Feb. 23, citing safety concerns for students and educators.

Mexico’s Security Cabinet also reported widespread property damage linked to the unrest, stating that approximately 20 state-owned banks were affected during the violence.