Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico – Airports closed, highways were blocked and travelers were stranded Sunday after federal forces killed a major cartel leader in Jalisco.
On Sunday, Feb. 22, Mexico’s federal Security Cabinet confirmed that Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” alleged leader of the Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), was killed during a security operation. Officials did not immediately release details about the agencies involved.
Within hours, retaliatory violence was reported across parts of Jalisco and neighboring states. Videos circulating on social media showed vehicles burning and smoke rising from major roadways. Local reports described buses and taxis set on fire in Puerto Vallarta, including near tourist areas and main avenues.
Authorities confirmed road blockades in multiple municipalities, disrupting vehicle access to airports and city centers.
Puerto Vallarta International Airport suspended operations amid the unrest, with no departures or arrivals scheduled for portions of the day. Some flights were diverted. Travelers reported sheltering inside hotels as taxi and rideshare services halted.
Guadalajara International Airport said it remained operational. Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico stated no incidents occurred inside the terminal, despite online claims of gunfire.
Restaurants and businesses in some tourist zones closed as a precaution. Communication services in parts of Puerto Vallarta were reported as intermittent.
The transportation disruptions affected tourists, airport workers and regional commuters across western Mexico.
