'Seek shelter': Indian Embassy Issues Advisory After Violence Erupts in Mexico Over El Mencho's Death

New Delhi:  The Indian Embassy in Mexico on Monday issued an advisory to the Indian nationals in several parts of Mexico and urged them to minimise unnecessary movements and avoid crowds after violence erupted following the killing of Mexican drug lord Nemesio Oseguera, also known as El Mencho.

What did the Embassy advice?

In the advisory, Embassy advised the Indian nationals in several parts of Mexico to remain indoors and avoid large crowds amid the ongoing clashes in the country.

In a post on X, the Embassy said that Indian nationals in Jalisco State, Tamaulipas State, and areas of Michoacan, Guerrero, and Nuevo Leon, should remain indoors until further notice.

"Dear all Indian nationals in Mexico: There are ongoing security operations and related road blockages and criminal activity, Indian nationals in Jalisco State (areas of Puerto Vallarta, Chapala, and Guadalajara), Tamaulipas State (areas of Reynosa and other municipalities), areas of Michoacan State, Guerrero State, and Nuevo Leon State should shelter in place until further notice," the post read.

Did the Embassy issue a list of actions?

The embassy has issued a check list of actions the Indian nationals in Mexico should take, including:

• 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.

The Embassy also shared a number for any queries.

"For assistance please contact the Embassy of India at +52 55 4847 7539," the embassy added.

Who was El Mencho and how did he die?

On Sunday, Mexico's Defense Ministry made a big announcement that El Mencho was surrounded in a Special Forces operation in Jalisco state. An encounter took place in the Tapalpa area, where he was badly injured. He died while being taken by helicopter to Mexico City. Many more CJNG members were killed, and some weapons and armored vehicles were also seized. The help of American Intelligence was also taken in the operation.

What happened after death? 

As soon as the news of El Mencho's death spread, CJNG goons started taking revenge. Violence broke out in more than half a dozen states including Jalisco. Highways were blocked, dozens of vehicles were burnt, gunmen blocked the roads. Smoke was seen rising in Puerto Vallarta, burning vehicles remained lying on the streets in Guadalajara. People were seen running at the airport. Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus appealed to people to stay home.