The U.S. Embassy in Mexico has expanded its security alert to include the states of Quintana Roo and Baja California, advising American citizens to seek shelter in place amid widespread unrest following the reported death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The updated advisory, issued February 22, 2026, directs all U.S. Government personnel at the Consulate General in Tijuana, as well as those stationed in the states of Guerrero, Michoacán, and Quintana Roo, to remain at their residences.
U.S. Government personnel at the Consulate General in Monterrey have been instructed to remain within the metropolitan area. The embassy cited ongoing security operations, road blockades, and criminal activity as the basis for the expanded alert. Even as no airports have been officially closed, reports indicate disruptions to air travel, with international flights canceled in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta. Puerto Vallarta, a popular destination for U.S. Tourists, has seen the suspension of taxi and rideshare services, according to the advisory.
The alert now encompasses the entirety of Jalisco (including Puerto Vallarta, Chapala, and Guadalajara), Baja California (Tijuana, Tecate, and Ensenada), and Quintana Roo (Cancún, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum). It also extends to areas within Guanajuato, Guerrero, Michoacán, Oaxaca, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas affected by the blockades. The State Department’s travel advisory for Mexico remains in effect, urging travelers to exercise increased caution throughout the country.
Consular services may be limited due to the security situation. The U.S. Embassy has not announced any plans to evacuate American citizens, but continues to monitor the situation closely. The embassy has directed all government personnel in Quintana Roo to remain in their homes, particularly in the tourist destinations of Cancún, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.
The heightened alert follows a confrontation between Mexican armed forces and El Mencho in Tapalpa, Jalisco, which reportedly resulted in his death. In response, CJNG affiliates have allegedly established roadblocks, set vehicles ablaze, and disrupted transportation networks across multiple states. The U.S. Government has not independently confirmed reports of El Mencho’s death.
The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico are available to provide assistance to U.S. Citizens. A list of consular locations can be found on the embassy’s website. As of February 23, 2026, the security alert remains in effect until further notice.
