Mexico has been plunged into widespread violence and chaos following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, the notorious drug lord known as ‘El Mencho.’ The leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) was fatally wounded during a major military operation on February 22, 2026, in Tapalpa, Jalisco state. He succumbed to his injuries while being transported by air to Mexico City.
In retaliation for their leader’s death, cartel members have unleashed a wave of violence across at least eight Mexican states. The unrest has included arson attacks on businesses and public transportation, road blockades, and temporary airport closures, creating widespread disruption and endangering civilians.
The Haitian Embassy in Mexico has issued an urgent security alert to its citizens residing in or visiting the affected regions. The advisory specifically warns about ongoing security operations in Jalisco state, particularly in Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, and Tapalpa, where armed clashes and vehicle fires have been reported.
Additional states experiencing cartel-related violence include Michoacán, Guanajuato, Nayarit, Colima, Aguascalientes, and Tamaulipas. The embassy has instructed Haitian nationals to exercise extreme caution, shelter in place, and avoid all non-essential travel. Other recommendations include strictly avoiding areas where law enforcement operations are underway, maintaining heightened situational awareness, and monitoring reliable local media for updates.
The embassy further advised citizens to follow instructions from local authorities, use emergency services by dialing 911 when necessary, and regularly communicate their whereabouts and safety status to family members through various communication channels. Haitian diplomatic officials confirmed they are closely monitoring the evolving security situation and emphasized the importance of caution and personal responsibility during this period of heightened instability.