Brits in Mexico warned to 'stay indoors' as cartel violence sweeps country following drug lord El Mencho’s death
Chaos descended after authorities killed a well known cartel boss on Sunday
Brits holidaying in Mexico have been warned to stay indoors and avoid any unnecessary travel amid a wave of violent attacks following the death of a powerful drug boss.
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Mexican authorities confirmed on Sunday evening that they had killed the cartel boss known as ‘El Mencho’, one of the most wanted drug traffickers in the world.
The killing took place following a military operation in the western state of Jalisco, which is said to have triggered unrest and hours of roadblocks with vehicles set on fire across the region.
In updated travel advice issued on Monday, the Foreign Office warned: "Serious security incidents have been reported on 22 February across the state of Jalisco, including in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, following a federal law-enforcement operation against organised crime in the municipality of Tapalpa.
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"Authorities in Puerto Vallarta have issued a public advisory to stay indoors. Routes to airports may be blocked.
"You should exercise extreme caution, follow local authorities’ advice, including orders to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel in affected areas."
Mexico's defence ministry said that El Mencho died from injuries after the military operation during an air transfer.
Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes was leader of Mexico's most powerful criminal organisation, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, (CJNG) known for its military-style arsenal, and displays of violence.
The US had offered a $15m (£11m) reward for the capture of the drug boss, who stood accused of smuggling cocaine, fentanyl and methamphetamine in huge quantities across its southern border.
Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific coast and Guadalajara, which will host matches during the 2026 World Cup, have also experienced severe disruptions, according to The Independent.
Similar warnings were echoed by the United States Embassy in Mexico, which urged Americans to "shelter in place."
Britons were also advised to monitor local media and follow guidance from authorities.
The advice added: "If you do decide to travel, we recommend intercity road travel during daylight hours."
"Security incidents have also been reported in other parts of Mexico. As the situation develops, wherever you are in Mexico, you should stay alert and follow local security advice.'
Puerto Vallarta International Airport announced it had cancelled "all international operations and most of the domestic flights" on Sunday local time.