The Canadian government has issued a travel advisory to Canadians in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico which states violence and roadblocks are occurring in Jalisco. A shelter in place order is in effect, and the federal government advises Canadians to keep a low profile and follow recommendations of local authorities.
The government says criminal groups have set up roadblocks with burning vehicles in several cities in various parts of Mexico. There have been shootouts with security forces and explosions, including on roads and highways.
Airlines are cancelling flights, and thousands of Canadians are stranded. Yesterday the Governor of Jalisco closed the Puerto Vallarta airport. Sources say the violence erupted after cartel boss ‘El Mencho,’ was killed during a clash with military forces on Sunday.
According to local media reports Puerto Vallarta residents are referring to it as “Black Sunday” with unrest continuing through the night including arson and vandalism targeting local businesses in addition to reports of looting.
The security situation in Puerto Vallarta is ongoing, and with local authorities having issued a shelter-in-place order, Air Canada flights to and from PVR will be cancelled Monday.
WestJet advised travellers to check the status of their flight and that they had implemented their flexible/change policy for guests flying from Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara and Manzanillo for the next two days.
Security incidents have taken place across the country:
-Jalisco, including Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta
-Guerrero, including Acapulco
-Michoacán
-Sinaloa, including Mazatlán
-Quintana Roo, including Cancun
-Baja California, including Tijuana and Tecate
-Nayarit
The federal government advises that the security situation could deteriorate rapidly in these locations and in others across Mexico. Shelter in place orders are in effect in Jalisco and Nayarit. Similar instructions, including curfews, may be issued on short notice in other areas of the country. There are significant disruptions to travel and transportation, including flight delays and cancellations.
If you are in Mexico:
-avoid the affected areas
-keep a low profile and limit your movements
-follow the advice of local authorities, including any curfews and orders to shelter in place
-monitor local and international media to stay informed of the rapidly evolving situation
-before making your way to the airport, check with your airline to determine if there are delays or changes in flight schedules
