23 inmates escape after deadly cartel violence in Mexican resort

Mexican authorities are searching for 23 inmates who escaped from a prison in Puerto Vallarta during a violent outbreak linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).

The jailbreak occurred after armed men rammed a prison gate on Sunday, amid a series of attacks reportedly following the alleged killing of CJNG leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho.”

Authorities say more than 70 people have been killed in the unrest, including 25 members of the National Guard, as cartel members blocked roads and set vehicles on fire across Puerto Vallarta.

Officials have since cleared most roadblocks, but the search for the fugitives continues with coordination between multiple states.

Tourists and residents were urged to remain indoors, while several airlines temporarily halted flights and at least two cruise ships cancelled scheduled stops in the popular beach resort.

Meanwhile, in Morelia, El Mencho’s reported birthplace, cartel members continued to torch cars and vandalise buildings, spreading fear among residents.

Under El Mencho’s leadership, the CJNG became one of Mexico’s most powerful criminal organisations, known for drug production, trafficking and extreme violence against security forces.

Source:BBC