Canadians vacationing in Mexico were forced to shelter in place Sunday after violence erupted across parts of Jalisco State, prompting airport closures and widespread flight cancellations.
Mexican authorities warned that travel was unsafe in parts of the state, including the popular tourist destination of Puerto Vallarta, after reports that the leader of a major drug cartel had been killed during a government operation.
The Associated Press reported that Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho” and leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, was killed in a raid.
The cartel is considered one of the most powerful criminal organizations in Mexico.
Videos circulating online showed vehicles set ablaze and thick black smoke rising over parts of Puerto Vallarta.
Roadblocks involving burning vehicles were reported across the state.
Global Affairs Canada advised Canadians in the region to shelter in place, keep a low profile and monitor local media.
The department estimates nearly 19,000 Canadians are currently in Mexico, including close to 5,000 in Jalisco State, though those numbers are based on voluntary registration.
Several Canadian airlines — including WestJet and Air Canada — cancelled or diverted flights to and from Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara and Manzanillo.
WestJet said it diverted seven flights and cancelled 24 as a precaution.
Travellers described scenes of panic inside the Puerto Vallarta airport, where military personnel secured the building and passengers were directed to shelter areas.
Some reported hearing what sounded like gunfire. Others said roads were closed, preventing tourists from returning to hotels.
Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said the government is deeply alarmed by the violence and remains in close contact with local authorities.
As of Sunday evening, Canadians in the area were waiting for further instructions while hoping for a return to calm.
Officials say the situation remains fluid.