Puerto Vallarta Recovers from Violence Following Cartel Leader's Death
Return to Normalcy in Puerto Vallarta
The resort city of Puerto Vallarta in Mexico is slowly regaining its usual atmosphere after a violent weekend triggered by the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, the head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, commonly referred to as "El Mencho." Earlier this week, authorities lifted a "Code Red" alert, with a full return to normal expected by Wednesday. Cleanup efforts are ongoing in various parts of the city, and a visible presence of soldiers and police remains in key areas and tourist zones, a measure aimed at restoring public confidence.
The unrest erupted on Sunday when Mexican security forces, with assistance from US intelligence, killed Oseguera during a raid in Tapalpa, located in the western state of Jalisco. Following this, cartel members ignited vehicles, set up roadblocks, and launched attacks across several states, including Jalisco. The violence extended to Puerto Vallarta, a popular tourist destination on the Pacific Coast. Initial reports indicated over 70 fatalities from the operation and subsequent clashes, including around 25 members of Mexico’s National Guard, numerous suspected cartel members, and at least one civilian.
Officials described the explosions heard in the city through Friday as controlled detonations for security reasons. Despite the chaos, which included burning vehicles and blocked roads, there have been no confirmed deaths of American tourists or residents in Puerto Vallarta or related incidents in the area. US tourists recounted scenes of disorder, such as travelers stranded at the airport, vehicles being hijacked and set ablaze, and guests taking refuge in hotels.
The U.S. State Department issued shelter-in-place advisories for certain areas in Jalisco, including Puerto Vallarta, urging American citizens to stay updated through official channels. Airlines temporarily suspended or reduced flights during the peak of the unrest, leaving many visitors unable to leave. While American officials and local reports have not confirmed any US fatalities, one American resident reported being attacked and having his vehicle hijacked but managed to survive. Other visitors noted witnessing burning cars and a significant security presence before safely returning or waiting for services to resume.
Currently, Puerto Vallarta’s international airport is operating at about 42 percent capacity. Highways are fully accessible, and local transportation services are gradually increasing. Tourism operators have resumed some boat tours and excursions, with restaurants in tourist areas aiming to fully reopen by Wednesday. Hotels have reported minimal damage and continue to assist their guests. Local authorities have stressed that the visible presence of security forces is a standard response to such alerts in Mexico, intended to prevent further incidents while reassuring both residents and visitors.
Activity is beginning to pick up again at the city’s beaches, boardwalk, and marina districts. The US Embassy continues to advise caution and recommends that American travelers check directly with airlines and service providers for the latest updates. Although conditions have calmed since the height of the violence, officials have urged ongoing vigilance as the city works towards a complete reopening.