Violent riots erupt across Mexico following the assassination of drug cartel leader ‘El Mencho,’ prompting Polish authorities to issue safety warnings to citizens.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Issues Safety Warning
In several regions of Mexico, riots and shootings are occurring after the killing of drug cartel leader Nemesio Oseguere Cervantes, known as “El Mencho.” The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not currently plan to evacuate Polish citizens from Mexico – Minister Radosław Sikorski reported. The Vice Prime Minister added that 750 people have registered in the Odyseusz system in this country.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs appeals to Poles to exercise special caution – avoiding public gatherings, following local authorities’ announcements, and complying with security services’ instructions. The Ministry reminds of the need to continuously monitor the situation and register in the Odyseusz system, which enables quick contact with citizens in case of danger.
Tourists Trapped in Mexican Resorts
Anita Błaszzak, a Pole living in Canada, was surprised by the riots in the tourist town of Puerto Vallarta. In the resort, there were many shootings as well as vehicle and building burnings. All shops and schools are closed, and tourists cannot leave their hotels.
According to Błaszczak, no one can currently leave the city as all flights are suspended. She mentioned that cartel members were burning small shops with incendiary devices, with the aim of causing panic among tourists. Burning cars are no longer visible, but security remains a concern.
Polish Soldier Describes Cartel Power
Piotr Łopata, a former soldier living in Playa del Carmen, Mexico for five years, reported that shops are closed, burned cars are visible, and some routes to tourist destinations were closed. He emphasized that Mexican drug cartels do not fear attacking the military, using drones, setting up ambushes, and shooting at security forces.
Łopata pointed out that Mexican cartels are considered paramilitary organizations with typical military equipment. “As a soldier, I can say that it’s terrible what’s happening here. Many soldiers have lost their lives,” he emphasized, adding that these cartels are much stronger than European gangs.
Violence Escalates with Dozens Dead
According to experts, the death of the Jalisco Nueva Generacion cartel leader could lead to power struggles within criminal structures, and consequently to an increase in violence in some regions of the country. Supporters of “El Mencho” have blocked highways, burned buses and buildings.
Shootings between criminals and Mexican security services have resulted in about 70 deaths. Mexican authorities are calling for calm and assure they are in control of the situation. Recordings of people taking cover from shots and fleeing are being published online, with burning cars visible near the Guadalajara airport terminal.
Local media also report about an armed group storming a prison, from which a group of prisoners, including dangerous criminals, had escaped.