Quebec Government Issues Safety Advisory for Citizens in Puerto Vallarta Amid Escalating Violence
Quebec's Minister of International Relations, Christopher Skeete, has issued a stern warning to Quebecers currently in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, advising them to shelter in place as violence erupts following the death of a prominent cartel leader. The Canadian federal government has reinforced this message, highlighting that a shelter-in-place order is officially in effect in the region due to severe security threats.
Government Response and Monitoring
In a post on social media platform X on Sunday, February 22, 2026, Minister Skeete expressed deep concern over the rapidly deteriorating situation in Puerto Vallarta. He confirmed that the Quebec government is closely monitoring developments after Mexican security forces killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as El Mencho, a key figure in organized crime. Skeete urged all Quebec citizens in the area to immediately register with the Canadian Embassy to receive critical updates and adhere strictly to local safety protocols.
"I am worried about what is happening in Mexico. We are following the situation closely and invite Quebecers to stay at home and register with the Canadian embassy to receive updates from the authorities," Skeete stated in his post, which included a link to official travel advisories.
Federal Travel Advisories and Safety Measures
The Government of Canada's travel advisory website has been updated to reflect the heightened risks, advising Canadians to "exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico due to high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping." Specific warnings have been issued against non-essential travel to several parts of the country, including Jalisco state, where Puerto Vallarta is located. The advisory details that criminal groups have established roadblocks using burning vehicles in multiple southwestern Mexican cities, leading to shootouts with security forces and explosions.
Significant disruptions to travel and transportation have been reported, with flight delays and cancellations becoming commonplace. In Puerto Vallarta, all taxi and ride-share services have been suspended indefinitely, compounding the challenges for stranded travelers. The federal government recommends that Canadians in the region:
- Maintain a low profile and avoid drawing attention.
- Continuously monitor local and international media for real-time information.
- Follow all directives from local authorities, including any orders to remain indoors.
Additionally, travelers are advised to check with their airlines before attempting to reach airports, as schedules may be altered without notice.
Impact on Air Travel and Broader Context
The escalating violence has directly impacted air travel, with several airlines, including Air Canada, cancelling flights to and from Puerto Vallarta. Air Canada announced a temporary suspension of operations at the Puerto Vallarta airport, citing the ongoing security situation and coordination with local authorities to resolve the issue. This disruption has left many travelers stranded, emphasizing the urgency of the shelter-in-place orders.
The violence stems from retaliatory actions by organized crime groups following the death of El Mencho, a leader whose influence extended across Jalisco, Guerrero, and Michoacan states. Incidents have included attacks on public infrastructure, such as buses set ablaze, as seen in photos from February 22, 2026, where firefighters worked to extinguish flames amid chaotic scenes. This context underscores the broader pattern of cartel-related instability in Mexico, which has prompted repeated travel warnings from Canadian officials over the years.
As the situation evolves, the Quebec and Canadian governments continue to prioritize the safety of their citizens abroad, urging vigilance and compliance with all security measures to mitigate risks in this volatile environment.
