Cartel violence in Mexico has led to significant disruptions at airports in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta. The unrest followed the death of Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes, a cartel leader, during a military operation in Jalisco on Sunday (February 22). As a result, the U.S. State Department and other governments have urged citizens in affected areas to shelter in place.
While airports remain open, many domestic and international flights have been canceled, particularly in western Mexican cities. The violence has included road blockages and vehicle fires, impacting transportation and leading to warnings from the U.S., Canada, and the UK for their citizens to stay indoors.
The U.S. Embassy in Mexico has issued a security alert for several states, including Jalisco, urging citizens to stay put due to ongoing security operations. Guadalajara's airport is operating with limited personnel, and while no incidents have been reported inside the facilities, there is widespread panic among passengers.