‘Americans are being held hostage…’: Big statement after El Mencho’s death; horrific scenes in Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara

Meanwhile, conservative commentator Laura Loomer posted a video claiming Americans were being targeted at Guadalajara airport and locals said they heard gunshots.

Read more: El Mencho Killed: 5 Things You Need to Know About Mexican Drug Lord Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes

“After the United States eliminated a leader of a Mexican drug cartel today, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) retaliated by sending armed gunmen to attack the Guadalajara airport. They are now holding American tourists hostage on nearby highways and hotels,” Loomer posted on the X (formerly Twitter) platform.

In a relatively short period of time, the CJNG evolved into a criminal group that spanned continents and rivaled former allies of the Sinaloa cartel. Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman, the leader of the Sinaloa drug cartel, has been captured and is currently in a U.S. prison.

Read more: ‘Shelters in place immediately’: U.S. embassy in Mexico issues emergency security alert after El Mencho killing

“The operation to arrest him was led by the Ministry of Defense but he was eventually killed,” a source told Reuters.

“We remain on red alert. We reiterate our advice to avoid leaving your home. Conflicts are occurring across several federal entities,” he added in a subsequent post.

Videos on social media showed cars on fire on roads in Jalisco state and black smoke billowing into the sky. Mexican media reported that burning vehicles and armed men blocked highways in several states across the country, especially in the north and northwest.

Michoacán Gov. Alfredo Ramirez Bedolla wrote on

“Due to ongoing security operations and associated road congestion and criminal activity, U.S. citizens at designated locations are advised to shelter in place until further notice,” the alert reads.