February 23, 2026
Australia Urges ‘High Degree of Caution’ for Mexico After Cartel Leader Killed
A Smarttraveller warns of unrest, transport disruption, and has asked residents to shelter-in-place.
TL;DR
- Australian government updated travel advice for Mexico to "exercise heightened caution."
- Heightened caution is due to a surge in violence after a major drug cartel figure was killed.
- Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was killed in a Mexican military operation on Feb. 22.
- U.S. officials confirmed his death and noted a $15 million reward for information leading to his capture.
- Several explosions have been reported in Jalisco, including Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, following the operation.
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