Canadians in the popular Mexican state of Jalisco are grappling with the aftermath of violent unrest sparked by the death of a notorious drug cartel leader. As air travel resumes, many remain stranded, having witnessed the chaos that unfolded in what is typically a serene holiday destination. The situation remains precarious, prompting the Canadian government to issue travel advisories and monitor the safety of its citizens abroad.
Unrest Following the Killing of ‘El Mencho’
The turmoil erupted following the military’s operation that resulted in the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). This marked a significant escalation in violence, with reports indicating at least 73 fatalities since Sunday, including military personnel and suspected cartel members. Mexican Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch confirmed that a series of attacks targeted law enforcement, leaving the local population—and tourists—on edge.
Witnesses described scenes of destruction as armed groups set fire to buses, shops, and gas stations across the region. The once-peaceful streets of Puerto Vallarta and its surroundings transformed into sites of turmoil, with civilians barricading roads and seeking shelter from the violence.
Stranded Tourists and Resuming Flights
In the wake of the unrest, many Canadians found themselves unable to leave as airlines temporarily suspended services. However, airlines such as WestJet, Air Canada, and Air Transat are beginning to reinstate flights to affected areas, including Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, starting Tuesday.
As of Monday, at least 26,305 Canadians had registered with Global Affairs Canada for updates and support. Yet, Minister Anita Anand remarked that this figure represents a mere fraction of those impacted by the ongoing crisis. The government’s advisory underscores the fluid nature of the situation, urging citizens to exercise caution.
Nova Scotia resident Garrin Boudreau, who was holidaying in Puerto Vallarta, described the city slowly returning to a semblance of normality. Yet, he recounted harrowing moments as he observed multiple fires burning from his Airbnb, prompting him to shelter with other tourists.
Community Resilience in the Face of Chaos
While many visitors were shaken by the violence, stories of community resilience emerged amidst the turmoil. Richard and Eileen Klassen, a couple from Winnipeg, praised local restaurant staff for their hospitality during the chaos. When they found themselves in a precarious situation following an explosion at a nearby market, they were welcomed into a local eatery that remained open to protect them.
Similarly, Kirsten Rowe, a circus artist from Ontario, expressed her disappointment at witnessing the transformation of her beloved Guadalajara into a scene of anxiety. She clung to her partner’s support while trying to reassure her family back home that they were safe.
Yet not all experiences were marked by calm. Brandon Perry, travelling alone from Saskatoon, described the eerie silence and deserted streets, comparing the atmosphere to a dystopian film. Many tourists shared sentiments of confusion and fear, exacerbated by misinformation circulating online.
Government Response and Future Concerns
In response to the violence, President Claudia Sheinbaum has called for calm, assuring citizens that local authorities are working to clear roadblocks and restore order. As of Monday, more than 250 roadblocks had been dismantled across 20 states, with additional efforts anticipated to alleviate the situation further.
Despite these efforts, the fear of renewed violence lingers among both locals and tourists. The ongoing instability raises questions about safety in popular tourist regions, particularly as the holiday season approaches.
Why it Matters
The recent violence in Jalisco highlights the precarious balance between tourism and security in Mexico, a country that relies heavily on its tourism industry. For Canadians and other international visitors, the events underscore the importance of being informed and prepared when travelling to areas with known risks. The unfolding situation serves as a stark reminder of the realities faced by many communities grappling with the repercussions of cartel violence, drawing attention to the broader implications of drug-related crime on society. As recovery efforts continue and flights resume, the need for vigilance and community solidarity remains paramount.
