Over the weekend of February 21–22, 2026, Mexico saw a sudden wave of violence after the death of a major cartel leader. Thousands of Canadians in popular resort areas, especially in Jalisco State, are now stranded or recommended to remain inside.
On Sunday, February 22, the Mexican military carried out an operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, that killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, better known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). He died from wounds while being airlifted to Mexico City, according to the Mexican Defence Secretariat (Al Jazeera, 2026).
Following his death, CJNG members launched widespread retaliation. More than 250 roadblocks were reported across 20 states, with vehicles and convenience stores set on fire to slow military movement (Al Jazeera, 2026). Clashes between cartel fighters and the National Guard left at least 25 National Guard members and 30 cartel operatives dead.
Global Affairs Canada (GAC) advised Canadians in Jalisco, including Puerto Vallarta, to stay indoors and maintain a low profile (GAC Travel Advisory, 2026). Major Canadian airlines like Air Canada, WestJet, Porter, and Sunwing have cancelled flights in and out of Puerto Vallarta on February 22 and 23. Over 26,000 Canadians are currently in Mexico, with 5,000 registered in Jalisco.
Transportation has also been severely affected. Taxi and rideshare services were suspended in Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, leaving tourists unable to reach airports.
Despite the unrest, Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said there are no plans for evacuation flights. The government is offering consular support and expects the situation may stabilize in the coming days. (Time Out Worldwide, 2026)
Canada’s travel advisory now warns to “exercise a high degree of caution” throughout Mexico and avoid non-essential travel to Jalisco, Sinaloa, and Michoacán.
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