Portuguese nationals in Mexico – particularly the cities of Jalisco, Nayarit, Guanajuato, Colima, Michoacán, and Tamaulipas – are being warned by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs against “unnecessary travel”, due to deteriorating security conditions.
In a note published on the Portuguese communities’ portal, the Ministry refers to a military operation over the weekend that resulted in the death of the leader of one of the largest drug cartels.
In the note, the Ministry says that the Portuguese embassy has been receiving reports of serious public disturbances following this operation, including roadblocks, shootings and the detention of passers-by in various parts of the country (especially Jalisco, Guanajuato and Michoacán).
The note adds that it is “highly recommended” to travel to Mexico with “the most comprehensive medical insurance possible – with extensive coverage of medical expenses” throughout the stay, including repatriation or medical evacuation to the destination of origin, due to the high cost of health services.
The Ministry also stresses Mexico’s high crime rate, recommending that any travelers register their journeys on the “Registo Viajante” app, as this ‘facilitates the action of Portuguese authorities in the event of any emergency situations’.
Registering on the “Registo Viajante” app allows travellers to receive information on security conditions, access the contact details of Portuguese diplomatic and consular representations, and have a direct link to the Consular Emergency Office.
The wave of violence assailling the country appears to be a reaction by cartel members to the military operation which, Lusa explains, was carried out with the support of the United States of America.
Eight of Mexico’s 32 states have suspended (educational) classes, the judiciary has authorised judges to keep courts closed when deemed necessary. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has called for “calm”.
Drug leader Nemesio Oseguera, known as “El Mencho”, who died on Sunday, was considered the last of the great Mexican cartel bosses since the arrest of the founders of the Sinaloa cartel, Joaquín Guzmán “El Chapo” and Ismael “Mayo” Zambada, who are both currently imprisoned in the United States.
Source: LUSA
