Washington, 23 February (HS): The United States on Sunday advised its citizens in parts of Mexico to shelter in place amid widespread violence, road blockages and flight cancellations following the killing of a senior cartel leader by Mexican forces.

In a statement posted on social media platform X, the State Department’s Consular Affairs section said ongoing security operations and related criminal activity had disrupted several areas. It noted that roadblocks had affected airline operations, leading to cancellations of domestic and international flights in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta.

The advisory followed confirmation from Mexican authorities that Nemesio Oseguera, 59, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, was fatally wounded during a clash with soldiers in Tapalpa and died while being transported to Mexico City. He had a reported US bounty of 15 million dollars.

The State Department urged US citizens in Michoacan, Guerrero and Jalisco states to remain indoors until further notice, citing reports of shootouts with security forces and explosions. It advised travellers to monitor local developments and follow instructions issued by authorities.

Canada also issued a travel advisory, urging its citizens in Mexico to maintain a low profile and comply with guidance from local officials. Canadian authorities said they were closely monitoring the situation.

Several US and Canadian airlines cancelled flights to affected destinations on Sunday. Carriers including United, American,

Southwest and Alaska, as well as Air Canada and WestJet/Sunwing, suspended services to Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara and Manzanillo. Some aircraft already en route were diverted, with Southwest confirming that four flights bound for Puerto Vallarta were turned back. The airline said it would arrange flights to repatriate stranded passengers and staff once conditions stabilise.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar