Puerto Vallarta News Today: Buses torched and flights canceled after Tapalpa raid
puerto vallarta news today: Tourism hub Puerto Vallarta experienced arson, halted public transit and flight cancellations on Sunday after a federal operation in Tapalpa set off statewide unrest tied to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
Federal operation in Tapalpa set off clashes across Jalisco
The Mexican army killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho, " during a federal operation in Tapalpa in the early hours of Sunday, and authorities say the operation prompted criminal cells to mount blockades, set vehicles on fire and engage in armed confrontations across the state of Jalisco. Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro wrote on X that federal forces carried out an operation in Tapalpa and that, as a result, "individuals have burned and blocked vehicles" in both southern and metropolitan zones, and he ordered the activation of a red code and an immediate security coordination table with all three levels of government.
Puerto Vallarta News Today: buses burned, hotels advise guests to stay inside
In Puerto Vallarta, thick columns of black smoke rose over the city as more than 10 vehicles were set on fire at various points, public buses were torched downtown and motorcycle pursuits and a shootout in Ixtapa were reported. Public transportation services in the Pacific resort city ceased operations as a precaution, and hotels across Puerto Vallarta advised guests to remain indoors while some businesses temporarily closed.
Canadians ordered to shelter in place; airlines halt service
Foreign travelers were directly affected: Canadians in Puerto Vallarta were ordered to shelter in place as criminal groups set up roadblocks with burning vehicles and shootouts and explosions were reported. Air Canada, Porter and WestJet cancelled flights into the Puerto Vallarta airport, and an official with the Canadian consulate department confirmed the government is aware of and monitoring the developing situation.
Arrests and security response underway
Authorities linked the unrest in part to recent detentions. Federal forces had detained Alma Rosa "N, " known as "La Leona, " in the municipality of Tala hours before the Tapalpa raid; she is believed to be a CJNG recruiter tied to "El Lastra" and connected to the Rancho Izaguirre case, and her arrest is cited as one factor heightening tensions. The state Security Cabinet issued a statement that coordination with national forces was ongoing to contain the situation, and Mexico's federal Security Ministry announced measures to ensure the safety and protection of citizens.
Security forces are maintaining a visible presence across Jalisco and authorities have advised residents to avoid non-essential travel. Officials say coordination with national forces is ongoing to contain unrest, and airlines have suspended inbound service to Puerto Vallarta airport while public transit remains paused.
