Guadalajara (Mexico): Major violence erupted in several parts of Mexico after drug lord Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho” and head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) was killed in an Army operation on Sunday.
Cervantes (53), was under indictment in the United States for drug trafficking. A $15 million bounty had been placed on him.
Heavily armed CJNG members took to the streets and even opened fire inside the Guadalajara International Airport. Panicked air travellers ran for their lives in what is considered one of Mexico’s busiest travel hubs.
Dozens of passengers, carrying luggage, rushed through doors, while others hid behind counters for safety, videos shared on X showed. Armed men were seen opening fire inside the airport building.
Not only did CJNG members storm the airport, they went on a rampage elsewhere, torching cars, buses and shops.
The unrest also hit the popular Pacific resort of Puerto Vallarta and other parts of the state of Jalisco, as reported by News18.
Puerto Vallarta saw dozens of Oxxo shops and other businesses set on fire as violence escalated. The cartel attacks forced businesses to shut down and left tourists holed up in their hotels. Jalisco officials ordered schools to remain closed on Monday as fear gripped the region.
Several countries have issued travel advisories for citizens, urging them to avoid certain parts of Mexico.
