Ministry Ensures Safety of Indonesians in Mexico Following Cartel Violence

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has assured the safety of dozens of Indonesian nationals living in Jalisco, Mexico, following cartel-related unrest triggered by the death of drug lord Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho”.

Acting Director for the Protection of Indonesian Citizens at the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Heni Hamidah, said the Indonesian Embassy in Mexico City and the Honorary Consul in Guadalajara are closely monitoring the situation. Currently, 45 Indonesians are known to reside in Jalisco.

“All Indonesian nationals are safe and are following local government instructions to remain indoors,” Heni said in Jakarta on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

According to embassy records, Indonesians in Jalisco work as clergy, professional massage therapists, entrepreneurs, and company employees. The embassy has advised them to remain vigilant, avoid outdoor activities until conditions stabilize, follow local authorities’ guidance, and maintain communication with the embassy.

“For Indonesians planning to travel to Mexico in the near future, we recommend postponing trips until the security situation is declared safe,” Heni added.

In case of emergency, Indonesians can contact the Embassy in Mexico City at +52 1 556 2985 506 or the Directorate for the Protection of Indonesian Citizens at +62 812-9007-0027.

The unrest erupted after Mexico’s Army Special Forces killed seven members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), including its leader “El Mencho”, during a military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, on Sunday, February 22.

Retaliatory attacks followed, involving vehicle burnings, road blockades, and assaults on law enforcement across multiple cities, leaving 27 government personnel dead.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum urged citizens to remain calm, assuring that security forces are working to restore order. “There is full coordination with state governments; we must stay informed and calm,” she said on X, Monday, noting that activities continue normally in most parts of the country. ***