What Are Locals and Tourists Saying About the Unrest in Mexico?

The recent unrest in Mexico, following the death of El Mencho, the notorious leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), has left both locals and tourists in a state of shock and fear. As violence erupted across several states, including the popular tourist destination Puerto Vallarta, residents reported chaos, with burning vehicles and a sudden lockdown imposed by authorities to ensure safety.

Last updated: 02 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, commonly known as El Mencho, on Sunday, 1 October 2023, has triggered an immediate and violent response from the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Reports indicate that CJNG operatives have retaliated against authorities and rival gangs, leading to widespread violence across several Mexican states. Puerto Vallarta, a major tourist destination, has been particularly affected, with locals describing scenes of destruction and fear, as they were caught off guard by the sudden outbreak of violence.

Key takeaways

• El Mencho's death has escalated violence from the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
• Puerto Vallarta has experienced significant unrest, affecting residents and tourists alike.
• A stay-at-home order was issued as authorities struggled to manage the situation.
• Tourists are finding themselves stranded due to flight cancellations and unsafe conditions.

Timeline: how we got here

Significant events leading up to the current unrest include:

• September 2023: Tensions rise as security forces intensify their operations against CJNG in various states.
• 1 October 2023: El Mencho is reportedly killed during an operation aimed at capturing him, leading to immediate violence across several regions.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The immediate aftermath of El Mencho's death has seen a surge in violence, particularly in tourist hotspots like Puerto Vallarta. Eyewitness accounts describe burning vehicles and panic among residents and visitors. There is a noticeable lack of information from local authorities, which has exacerbated the sense of fear and confusion.

What was already established

Prior to this incident, the CJNG was already one of Mexico's most powerful and violent drug cartels, known for its brutal tactics and territorial disputes. El Mencho’s leadership had been linked to numerous violent crimes, making his capture or death a significant event in the ongoing war against drug cartels in Mexico.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The unrest could affect UK tourists who are currently in or planning to visit Mexico, particularly Puerto Vallarta. Concerns over safety may lead to altered travel plans, impacting bookings and itineraries, with many tourists feeling stranded as flights are cancelled amid the turmoil.

Businesses and jobs

Local businesses in Puerto Vallarta and surrounding areas may face severe disruptions due to the violence. Many shops and services have temporarily closed, impacting local economies dependent on tourism. The situation could lead to long-term implications for employment in the region as businesses grapple with the fallout.

Policy and regulation

The Mexican government is likely to respond with increased security measures in affected areas. This may include heightened police presence and possibly military intervention to restore order. UK travel advisories may also be updated to reflect the current situation, affecting British nationals' travel decisions.

Numbers that matter

• 1: The number of major cartel leaders killed in the operation, marking a potential turning point in the fight against drug cartels.
• 30+: Vehicles reportedly burned during the unrest in Puerto Vallarta alone.
• Several: Reports of injuries and chaos as residents and tourists were caught in the turmoil, with many unable to safely leave their locations.

Definitions and jargon buster

• CJNG: Jalisco New Generation Cartel, a major Mexican drug trafficking organisation known for its violent tactics.
• El Mencho: The alias of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, the leader of the CJNG and one of Mexico's most wanted criminals.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, UK tourists should stay informed about the situation through trustworthy news sources. It is advisable to avoid travel to affected regions and to follow any guidance issued by travel authorities.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the situation evolves, the Mexican government will likely implement strategies to control cartel violence. The impact on tourism may be felt for months, affecting local economies and safety perceptions.

Signals to watch

• Travel advisories from the UK government regarding safety in Mexico.
• Updates from local authorities in Puerto Vallarta and surrounding areas about the security situation.
• Reports of economic recovery or continued unrest in the region.

Practical guidance

Do

• Keep informed about the latest developments in Mexico, particularly in regions you plan to visit.
• Follow official travel advice and adhere to local authorities' instructions.
• Consider travel insurance that covers cancellations due to security issues.

Don’t

• Do not travel to affected areas unless you are sure of your safety.
• Do not ignore local curfews or lockdown orders during crises.
• Do not engage with or provoke local gangs or cartel members.

Checklist

• Check for updates on your flight status if travelling to Mexico.
• Review your travel insurance policy for coverage on cancellation due to unrest.
• Ensure you have emergency contacts and local numbers saved.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the current situation is alarming, the extent of the violence and its long-term implications are still unfolding. Local responses and government actions will play a critical role in determining how quickly normalcy can be restored. Tourists should remain cautious and prepared for rapid changes in the security landscape.

Bottom line

The recent violence in Mexico following the death of El Mencho highlights the ongoing conflict involving drug cartels and its impact on both local communities and tourism. As the situation develops, staying informed and adhering to safety guidelines will be crucial for anyone in or planning to visit the affected regions.

FAQs

What caused the recent unrest in Mexico?

The unrest was triggered by the killing of El Mencho, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, leading to a violent response from the cartel across several states.

How are tourists being affected by the violence?

Many tourists are feeling unsafe, with reports of flight cancellations and lockdowns in affected areas, particularly in Puerto Vallarta.

What should UK tourists do if they are in Mexico now?

UK tourists should follow local authorities' instructions, stay informed about the situation, and avoid travel to affected areas until the situation stabilises.