The Foreign Office has issued an urgent warning to British nationals in Mexico, advising them to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel following a surge in violence after the killing of a drug cartel kingpin. Mexico's military confirmed on Sunday that it had eliminated Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, known as 'El Mencho', during an operation in Jalisco state.
In revised travel guidance published on Monday, the Foreign Office cautioned that serious security incidents had been reported across Jalisco, including in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, after a federal law-enforcement operation. Authorities in Puerto Vallarta issued a public advisory to stay indoors, with routes to airports potentially blocked. Britons were urged to exercise extreme caution and follow local orders.
The killing sparked disorder and prolonged roadblocks, with vehicles torched throughout the state. Guadalajara, which is set to host FIFA World Cup matches, became a ghost town as residents hunkered down. Puerto Vallarta International Airport suspended all international operations and most domestic flights. Videos on social media showed people fleeing in panic at the airport as smoke rose over the city.
Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus told residents to stay home and suspended public transport. The US State Department warned Americans in several states to remain in safe places, while Canada issued similar alerts. Air Canada, United Airlines, and American Airlines cancelled flights to Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara.
Mexico is a major destination for British tourists, with nearly 450,000 arrivals by plane in 2025, a 4.8% rise on the previous year. Guadalajara welcomes over a million international visitors annually, while Puerto Vallarta received over six million in 2025. The Foreign Office advised Brits in Mexico to monitor local media, follow official guidance, and travel by road only during daylight if necessary.
