The Embassy of India in Mexico on Monday (February 23, 2026) urged Indian citizens living in the country to take shelter until further notice amid violence, roadblocks, and flight cancellations following the killing of a top drug cartel leader by Mexican soldiers.
India had already issued an advisory for its nationals in Mexico on Sunday. According to the statement from the Indian Embassy in Mexico City, all Indian citizens are advised to seek shelter, avoid large crowds, and remain cautious.
"There are ongoing security operations, road blockages, and criminal activity. Indian nationals in Jalisco State (Puerto Vallarta, Chapala, Guadalajara), Tamaulipas State (Reynosa and surrounding municipalities), Michoacan, Guerrero, and Nuevo Leon should shelter in place until further notice," the statement posted on X said.
The embassy also shared a checklist of safety measures for Indian citizens in Mexico:
- Avoid areas with law enforcement activity.
- Stay aware of your surroundings.
- Seek shelter and minimize unnecessary movement.
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Follow directions from local authorities and call 911 in case of emergency.
- Avoid crowds.
- Keep family and friends informed of your location and well-being via phone, text, or social media.
Indian nationals in Mexico can contact the Embassy at +52 55 4847 7539 for assistance. Similar advisories have also been issued by the United States and Canada.
The clashes erupted after Mexican army operations killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as El Mencho, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Mexico's defense ministry confirmed that Oseguera Cervantes was seriously injured in a shootout in Jalisco and died during an airlift to Mexico City.
CJNG is considered one of Mexico's most aggressive cartels due to repeated attacks on the military. The US Drug Enforcement Administration has stated that CJNG is as powerful as the Sinaloa cartel, with operations across all 50 US states.
