The U.S. Embassy in Mexico City ordered American citizens in several Mexican states to shelter in place after two embassy personnel were killed during an operation targeting drug laboratories.
The deaths occurred during a weekend operation in Morelos focused on shutting down clandestine drug manufacturing sites. Mexican officials said the personnel died in what they described as an accident while returning from the mission.
U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson said the incident underscored the risks faced by officials working on security issues. “This tragedy is a solemn reminder of the risks faced by those Mexican and U.S. officials who are dedicated to protecting our communities,” Johnson stated.
Details of the Operation
Mexican authorities reported that the operation dismantled one of the country’s largest clandestine drug laboratories. Officials seized industrial equipment including ovens and gas cylinders, along with thousands of liters of chemical precursors used in drug manufacturing.
The Chihuahua State Attorney General’s Office confirmed that personnel from the State Investigation Agency and two U.S. Embassy instructing officers died during the mission. Mexican officials identified one of the deceased AEI agents as Manuel Genaro Mendez Montes.
Escalating Cartel Violence
The shelter-in-place advisory follows similar warnings issued last month after Mexican security forces killed cartel leader Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” during a military operation on February 22. The operation triggered violent reactions from cartel members and armed groups across multiple cities.
In Puerto Vallarta, witnesses reported stores being ransacked and pharmacies set ablaze. Videos circulated on social media showing smoke rising over streets and vehicles on fire as tourists and travelers described being confined to hotels and secure locations.
Affected Areas
The State Department ordered U.S. citizens in Jalisco, Tamaulipas, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Nuevo León states to avoid crowds, minimize travel, and remain in secure locations. The advisory specifically names Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, Chapala, Reynosa, and other municipalities as areas of concern.
Authorities directed residents to stay away from law enforcement activity and remain sheltered until security conditions improve across the regions.
