WASHINGTON (TNND) — Americans remain stranded in western Mexico after a deadly government operation targeting one of the country’s most notorious drug lords triggered a wave of cartel violence, raising new concerns about safety in a major tourist hub — and about preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
Another tourist, David Miranda, said the violence felt surreal. “Yesterday was a little bit scary, like scenes out of a movie,” he said, describing smoke rising in the distance. Hayes added that reliable information has been hard to come by, with many travelers turning to social media for updates. (TNND)
Mexican security forces killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, better known as “El Mencho,” the longtime leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, in a sweeping crackdown that authorities say left more than 70 people dead during the operation and its chaotic aftermath.
In Puerto Vallarta, a popular Pacific coast resort city, American tourists described being told to shelter in place as gunfire and unrest broke out across parts of the region.
“We couldn’t get to the airport. Ubers weren’t running. We’re told to stay in our hotel and stay off the street,” said Blake Hayes, an American traveler stuck in the city.
Another tourist, David Miranda, said the violence felt surreal. “Yesterday was a little bit scary, like scenes out of a movie,” he said, describing smoke rising in the distance. Hayes added that reliable information has been hard to come by, with many travelers turning to social media for updates.
At the White House, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the administration is closely monitoring the situation. “Secretary Rubio and the State Department are absolutely on it,” she said, adding that officials are currently unaware of any reports of Americans being hurt, kidnapped or killed.
The White House confirmed the United States provided intelligence support to Mexican authorities. A senior U.S. intelligence official said multiple American agencies contributed through a Pentagon-led task force, with one source describing the CIA as “instrumental” in the mission.
The crackdown aligns with President Trump’s stated day-one priority of targeting transnational cartels, amid warnings of tariffs or other consequences if Mexico fails to curb the flow of illicit drugs into the United States.
Meanwhile, attention is also turning to Guadalajara, which is set to host four matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, along with a playoff event scheduled for next month. Cartel violence on the outskirts of the city — including burned buses and vehicles lining roadways — prompted the postponement of four professional soccer matches this week.
The stadium slated to host World Cup games is roughly 60 miles from where El Mencho was killed. In a statement late Monday, FIFA said it has “full confidence” in its host countries, including Mexico, and is closely monitoring developments.
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