Recent events in Mexico have escalated following the death of a notorious cartel leader. Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as El Mencho, was killed by the Mexican army, leading to widespread violence and chaos.
Anita Anand Addresses Canadians in Mexico
Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Anita Anand, provided an update regarding the safety of Canadians in Mexico. Speaking at a news conference on Parliament Hill, she confirmed that Canada is not planning to evacuate citizens through flights at this time.
Anand emphasized the importance of adhering to local guidelines and urged Canadians to shelter in place as necessary. She highlighted that the situation is being closely monitored in hotspot areas, particularly in Puerto Vallarta, a popular tourist destination located in Jalisco State.
Statistics on Canadians Abroad
Anand shared that over 26,000 Canadians have registered with Global Affairs, reflecting an increase of 8,000 since Sunday. This sharp rise indicates growing concern among Canadians regarding their safety in Mexico amidst the turmoil.
Escalating Violence in Jalisco State
The violence erupted as a response to El Mencho’s death, with cartel members retaliating by blocking roads and setting vehicles on fire. The violence has claimed numerous lives, including the tragic loss of 25 National Guard members in Jalisco due to six separate attacks following the incident.
Government Assurance on Security
Despite the current unrest, Anand relayed that her Mexican counterpart suggested that the security situation in Mexico is expected to stabilize soon. While she did not name the minister, it is likely that she was referring to Juan Ramón de la Fuente, the Mexican Foreign Affairs Minister.
- Death of cartels leader: El Mencho
- Canadian registered citizens: 26,305
- Increase in registration: 8,000 from previous Sunday
- National Guard casualties: 25 killed
As the situation develops, it remains crucial for Canadians in Mexico to stay informed and prioritize their safety. El-Balad will continue to follow this story as it unfolds.
