Puerto Vallarta Tourists Warned to Stay Put Amid Federal Operation and 'Clashes'

Tourists in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, were instructed to remain at their resorts on Sunday amid warnings of "clashes" in the area. The directive followed a federal operation that prompted dark smoke to rise over the popular seaside city.

The U.S. State Department issued a travel warning for multiple areas in Mexico, including parts of Jalisco State, urging citizens to shelter in place due to "ongoing security operations and related road blockages and criminal activity."

Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro announced that federal forces conducted an operation earlier Sunday, leading to "clashes" and the burning and blocking of vehicles to hinder authorities. He stated that "violent incidents have spread" and "blockades have shifted."

While federal officials did not immediately release details of the operation, local reports suggest it may involve the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.