Kamal Ghorui
The Embassy of India in Mexico has urged Indian citizens living in parts of Mexico to take shelter in place until further notice amid widespread violence, road blockages and flight disruptions following a major military operation against a cartel leader. In a post on X, on Monday (February 23, 2026), the embassy shared, “Dear all Indian nationals in Mexico: There are ongoing security operations and related road blockages and criminal activity, Indian nationals in Jalisco State (areas of Puerto Vallarta, Chapala, and Guadalajara), Tamaulipas State (areas of Reynosa and other municipalities), areas of Michoacan State, Guerrero State, and Nuevo Leon State should shelter in place until further notice.”
@IndEmbMexico/X/Twitter
The advisory further asked citizens to avoid areas around law enforcement activity, remain aware of their surroundings, minimise unnecessary movement, avoid crowds and monitor local media for updates. It also urged compliance with directions issued by local authorities and advised calling 911 in case of emergency. The embassy shared its emergency contact number: +52 55 4847 7539. Read more: After Ranthambore National Park, now mobile phones banned in Sariska, Rajasthan? What we know so far
What happened so far
The advisory comes after Mexican authorities announced that Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was killed on Sunday during a military-led operation. Security forces from multiple federal branches reportedly carried out the operation in Tapalpa, a town in the western state of Jalisco. According to Mexico’s Secretariat of National Defence, cartel members exchanged fire with security forces, resulting in four gang members being killed at the scene.El Mencho, a former police officer, had led the CJNG as it grew into one of Mexico’s most powerful and violent criminal organisations, as per the US Drug Enforcement Administration, CNN reported.
Violence spreads across states
Following the operation, violent incidents were reported across Jalisco and later in other states, including Michoacan and Guanajuato. Suspected organised crime members allegedly set buses on fire, erected roadblocks and clashed with authorities. Pablo Lemus Navarro, Jalisco Governor, urged residents to remain indoors and confirmed that public transportation services in Jalisco were suspended “until the situation is under control.” He also warned that unrest had spread to at least five states and advised people to avoid highway travel.The unrest has drawn international attention, particularly as Jalisco is scheduled to host four matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in June.Read more: Entry into Himachal to get costlier from April 1 with revised toll rates; check entry points and new charges
International advisories issued
In the wake of rising tensions, the United States Department of State and the Canadian government also issued warnings to their citizens in the affected areas to shelter in place because of violence, road blockages, and canceled flights. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as security operations remain ongoing in several areas.For Indian nationals in Mexico, officials have emphasised caution, limited movement and close monitoring of official updates until the situation stabilises.
