The Embassy of India in Mexico issued an urgent advisory early Monday, asking Indian nationals in several Mexican states to shelter in place after violence escalated following the killing of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera, alias “El Mencho.”
In a statement, the Embassy said there were “ongoing security operations and related road blockages and criminal activity” and advised Indians living in Jalisco, including Puerto Vallarta, Chapala and Guadalajara, as well as in Tamaulipas (including Reynosa), and parts of Michoacan, Guerrero and Nuevo Leon, to remain indoors until further notice.
The advisory urged the Indian nationals to minimize unnecessary movements outside their shelter and avoid areas around law enforcement activity.
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In a precautionary advise, the Embassy said, “Avoid areas around law enforcement activity. Be aware of your surroundings. Seek shelter and minimize unnecessary movements outside your shelter. Monitor local media for updates. Follow the directions of local authorities and in case of emergency, call 911. Avoid crowds. Keep family and friends advised of your location and well-being via phone, text, and social media. For assistance please contact the Embassy of India at +52 55 4847 7539.”
Cartel Chief Killed in Military Operation
The advisory was issued hours after Oseguera, head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), died after a military operation in Jalisco state.
According to Mexico’s defence ministry, the 60-year-old cartel chief was injured during a special forces raid in Tapalpa on Sunday and later died in custody. His body was flown to Mexico City under heavy security, escorted by National Guard troops.
Mexican authorities said the operation was carried out by domestic forces with intelligence support from the United States. A US defence official told Reuters that a US military-led task force played a role. Mexico’s defence ministry said it received “complementary information” from the US.
Soon after news of his death emerged, cartel members set up roadblocks using burning vehicles and set fire to businesses in more than six states, severely disrupting transport and daily life. Authorities said no civilian deaths had been reported.
Oseguera, a former police officer, founded the CJNG and led its rise into one of Mexico’s most powerful and violent criminal groups. In addition to drug trafficking, the cartel expanded into fuel theft, extortion, human smuggling and financial fraud. It was also known for using drones in attacks in western Mexico.
His death marks one of Mexico’s most significant actions against cartels accused of producing and trafficking drugs, particularly fentanyl, into the United States.
Why Indians Were Advised to Stay Indoors
The Embassy of India in Mexico is responsible for the safety of Indian citizens living or travelling in the country. Upon serious security incidents, especially those involving powerful cartels, embassies routinely alert their nationals as a precaution.
In this case, the killing of Nemesio Oseguera (“El Mencho”), leader of the CJNG, triggered violent retaliation. Cartel members blocked highways, burned vehicles and disrupted normal life across multiple states.
Such situations can escalate quickly and unpredictably. Foreign nationals, including Indians, may be particularly vulnerable because they may not be familiar with local security conditions. They could accidentally travel through affected areas or face language barriers during emergencies.