Texas authorities have stepped up security measures along the southern border in response to recent violence in Mexico following the killing of a high-profile cartel leader. Governor Greg Abbott directed the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to increase operations in border regions as officials monitor potential threats spilling over from Mexico.
The decision comes after the Mexican army killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as El Mencho, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, on Sunday. Considered one of Mexico’s most powerful criminal figures and among the most wanted fugitives in the United States, his death prompted violent reactions from cartel members in parts of Mexico, leading to road blockages, disturbances, and temporary disruptions to transportation.
In response, the DPS is deploying multiple units, including the Texas Highway Patrol, Texas Rangers, Criminal Investigations Division, Special Operations Group, Tactical Marine Unit, and Aircraft Operations Division. The increased presence aims to counter criminal activity and prevent transnational threats from impacting Texas communities. Officials also confirmed that DPS is coordinating with federal agencies to monitor developments across the border.
The U.S. Department of State, through the embassy in Mexico, issued a security alert on Sunday advising American citizens in several Mexican states to shelter in place due to ongoing security operations and potential criminal activity. This alert followed reports of violence in cities including Puerto Vallarta, where social media posts showed smoke rising over urban areas and travelers rushing through airports in apparent panic.
Governor Abbott emphasized that the safety of Texans remains a top priority both domestically and abroad. Residents traveling in Mexico were advised to stay alert, maintain contact with U.S. consular services, and adhere to official guidance. The guidance highlighted that conditions in affected areas can change rapidly and that being informed could prevent harm.
Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum also addressed the situation, urging citizens to remain calm while staying informed. She noted that roadblocks had been cleared and anticipated that canceled flights would resume by Tuesday. Authorities continue to monitor security conditions across affected regions, emphasizing the importance of cooperation with law enforcement and compliance with travel advisories.
Officials have outlined several steps for U.S. citizens to maintain safety while in Mexico:
Monitor Federal Warnings: Stay updated with travel advisories and security alerts from the Department of State and local embassy offices.
Contact Support Services: Americans in need of assistance can reach the Department of State from outside the U.S. at 1-202-501-4444, from inside the U.S. and Canada at 1-888-407-4747, or the Texas Fusion Center at 1-844-927-0521.
Register with the U.S. Embassy: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time alerts and facilitate emergency assistance.
Maintain Family Contact: Keep relatives informed about locations and travel plans, and establish regular check-ins.
Avoid High-Risk Areas: Do not enter regions under active security alerts or where violence is occurring.
Follow Local and Federal Instructions: Comply immediately with shelter-in-place orders or other directives issued by authorities.
Prepare for Emergencies: Keep important documents accessible, have emergency contacts on hand, and ensure reliable communication channels are available.
The death of El Mencho is seen as a significant blow to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, which has been involved in organized crime, drug trafficking, and violence throughout Mexico and parts of the United States. While authorities anticipate that cartel members may attempt retaliatory acts, both Mexican and U.S. officials are working to maintain stability in border regions.
Texas border communities are now witnessing increased patrols and enhanced surveillance. The DPS has indicated that law enforcement presence will remain elevated as long as threats persist, with particular attention to areas historically impacted by cross-border criminal activity.
This escalation follows a broader effort by Mexican authorities to address cartel operations. The elimination of the cartel leader comes amid a series of government actions aimed at curbing organized crime, a challenge that has long affected security conditions in multiple Mexican states.
Travelers in affected areas are encouraged to remain vigilant and follow instructions from both U.S. and local Mexican authorities. Officials note that preparedness, awareness, and adherence to guidance are essential to maintaining safety during periods of instability near the border.
