The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MSZ) has issued a travel warning for Mexico following a surge in violence after the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). While no evacuation of Polish citizens is currently planned, the MSZ is urging those in Mexico to exercise extreme caution and avoid non-essential travel, particularly in the states of Jalisco, Michoacán, and Guanajuato.
Radosław Sikorski, Poland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated that the situation is being closely monitored by the Polish diplomatic mission in Mexico City. According to Maciej Wewiór, spokesperson for the MSZ, 448 Polish citizens were registered in the Odyseusz system as of February 23rd, an increase from approximately 400 the previous day. The ministry is encouraging all Polish nationals currently in Mexico to register with Odyseusz to facilitate communication in emergency situations.
The escalating violence prompted concern among Polish citizens traveling in Mexico, including television personality Kinga Rusin and journalist Marek Kujawa. Rusin confirmed via social media that she and Kujawa had departed Mexico, posting from Notting Hill, London. Initially, she downplayed the severity of the situation in tourist areas, suggesting the eastern Yucatán Peninsula remained relatively stable. But, she later amended her post, acknowledging that the situation was “developing” and “changing from hour to hour.”
The MSZ warning comes after reports of widespread unrest, including road blockades, vehicle fires, and attacks on public buildings, following El Mencho’s death during a security operation on Sunday. The Polish embassy in Mexico has issued instructions to Polish citizens in the country, advising them to adhere to the guidance of local authorities.
As of Monday afternoon, the MSZ maintains that an evacuation is not being considered, though Sikorski noted the logistical challenges inherent in such operations. The ministry continues to monitor the situation, with no indication of when the travel advisory might be lifted.
