American Tourists Trapped in Puerto Vallarta Amid Violent Cartel Retaliation Following El Mencho’s Death
PUERTO VALLARTA, Mexico — The picturesque Mexican resort city of Puerto Vallarta descended into chaos after the reported killing of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho,” the notorious leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). American tourists vacationing in the area found themselves unexpectedly caught in the violent aftermath, as cartel factions unleashed retaliatory attacks that included burning vehicles, looting, and blockades that paralyzed the city.
Witnesses described scenes reminiscent of urban warfare, with cars set ablaze in the streets and pharmacies and stores ransacked amid the unrest. Eugene Marchenko, a 37-year-old tourist from Charleston, South Carolina, recounted waking to the blaring of horns and the sight of military helicopters overhead. “It felt like a war breaking out right outside my Airbnb,” Marchenko told Fox News Digital. Many visitors reported being confined to their hotels or rental properties as Mexican authorities issued shelter-in-place orders to contain the violence.
The U.S. Embassy in Mexico quickly responded by advising American citizens to remain indoors and avoid travel within the region until the situation stabilized. Flights in and out of Puerto Vallarta’s Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport were canceled or delayed as security forces worked to regain control. The U.S. Embassy in Mexico also provided emergency contact information for stranded travelers.
El Mencho’s death came as a result of a joint military operation supported by U.S. intelligence, marking a significant blow to one of Mexico’s most powerful and violent criminal organizations. The Drug Enforcement Administration has long listed the CJNG as a major threat due to its expansive drug trafficking operations and brutal tactics.
Following the announcement of the cartel leader’s demise, local law enforcement and the Mexican military deployed additional troops throughout Puerto Vallarta to quell the unrest. Despite these efforts, tourists reported limited access to food and supplies as many stores remained closed or had been looted. Some described venturing outside their accommodations cautiously in search of meals while navigating streets blocked by suspected cartel members.
The violence underscores the ongoing challenges Mexican authorities face in combating cartel influence in key tourist destinations. The Department of Homeland Security has increased coordination with Mexican counterparts to monitor developments and ensure the safety of U.S. citizens abroad.
As the situation remains fluid, officials urge travelers to stay informed through official channels and heed all safety advisories. The unfolding events in Puerto Vallarta serve as a stark reminder of the complex security landscape in regions affected by organized crime, even those popular with international visitors.
Leave a Reply