Violence spread across Tijuana and Baja California on Sunday after Mexican authorities killed Nemesio Rubรฉn Oseguera Cervantes โ known as "El Mencho" โ the founder and leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, one of Mexico's most powerful criminal organizations.
According to NBC 7 San Diego, the killing took place Sunday morning near Guadalajara in the municipality of Tapalpa, Jalisco State. In the aftermath, burned cars and blocked highways were reported across Baja California. Mexico's National Guard alerted of vehicles set on fire and road closures along major highways connecting Tijuana, Mexicali and Ensenada. Public transportation in Baja California was suspended as a precautionary measure.
The U.S. Embassy issued a shelter-in-place order for American citizens in 10 Mexican states, including Baja California. The U.S. Consulate warned specifically of roadblocks and criminal activity in Tecate, Ensenada and Tijuana. Consulate staff were instructed to shelter in place and urged Americans in the area to monitor local news and inform family of their whereabouts. Emergency assistance for U.S. citizens is available by calling +1-844-528-6611 from the United States.
For East County residents who cross frequently at Otay Mesa, San Ysidro or Tecate, the situation brought significant disruptions. Daily commuters reported heightened security at border crossings, with vehicles being inspected more thoroughly, according to NBC 7. One commuter noted the Ready Lane at the border came to a near-complete stop. Baja California Governor Marina del Pilar said the state's security department is meeting in permanent session and expanding patrols at checkpoints along major roads.
Americans traveling to or currently in Mexico are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program at step.state.gov to receive timely updates from the U.S. Consulate. The situation remained fluid as of Sunday evening, and residents are advised to check current U.S. State Department travel advisories before crossing into Baja California.