The United States Department of State issued a shelter-in-place alert on Sunday, Feb. 22, for Americans in several Mexican states due to ongoing security operations and related violence. The advisory applies to Jalisco — home to popular tourist destinations including Puerto Vallarta, Chapala and Guadalajara — as well as Tamaulipas, Michoacán, Guerrero and Nuevo León.
In its notice, the department urged U.S. citizens in the affected areas to shelter in place until further notice, avoid areas where law enforcement activity is taking place, avoid crowds and minimize unnecessary movement.
Military Operation Targeting CJNG
The warnings follow a major military operation launched by Mexico’s government against the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) on Feb. 22, according to a press release from Mexico’s Ministry of National Defense.
Authorities said military personnel were attacked during the operation and responded with force. According to the ministry, the confrontation resulted in the death of Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, the alleged head of the cartel, along with six other cartel members. Three members of the military were reportedly injured during the clashes.
Violence Across the Region
Pablo Lemus Navarro, governor of Jalisco, said in posts on X that the operation sparked retaliatory violence across the region. Individuals reportedly set vehicles on fire and blocked roads in an effort to disrupt authorities’ actions.
Navarro stated that he coordinated with federal, state and municipal authorities and activated a “code red” emergency response to protect residents. He also announced the cancellation of major public events statewide and said in-person classes for students would be suspended on Monday, Feb. 23, to help ensure the safety of students and teachers.
Mexico’s Security Cabinet later reported that approximately 20 state-owned banks were damaged during the unrest.
The U.S. Department of State and Mexico’s Ministry of National Defense did not immediately respond to requests for additional comment.
