US Embassy issues alert level 4: “Do not travel to Taxco, Guerrero”

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Travel Alert Issued for Taxco, Guerrero by United States Embassy

The United States Embassy has issued a travel alert for its citizens, advising against visiting the magical town of Taxco de Alarcón in Guerrero, Mexico. This alert comes as a result of escalating violence in the municipality, which has become a conflict zone between two Mexican cartels.

The embassy published a “Travel Warning from the Department of State for Guerrero” on its social media platforms, designating the alert as level 4 with the indication “do not travel” to the Mexican state. The warning specifically mentions recent security incidents, including the murder of a public transport driver, a multiple homicide of a cattle family, and the disappearance and death of two officers.

The violence in Taxco has intensified in the past week, leading to a transport strike, the cancellation of classes at all educational levels, and the closure of dozens of businesses. This wave of violence is the result of a dispute between La Familia Michoacana and Los Tlacos for control of the plaza.

In addition to the situation in Taxco, an attack by armed civilians on residents of the community of Coacoyulillo in the Chilpancingo mountains was reported, resulting in injuries, burned vehicles, and damaged houses. Another incident in the Campestres neighborhood of Iguala saw the murder of a taxi driver and the burning of his vehicle.

The report of violence in Guerrero extends to Buenavista de los Hurtados, where criminal groups have set fire to hills, engaged in shootings, and flown drones over residents’ homes. This has left the residents defenseless after the departure of soldiers who were deployed to the area after a previous massacre at the beginning of the year.

The US Embassy has advised its workers not to travel to Taxco due to the ongoing insecurity, although the violence is spreading throughout the entire state of Guerrero. This travel alert serves as a warning for all US citizens to avoid the area until the situation stabilizes.

The escalation of violence in Taxco and other parts of Guerrero has raised serious concerns about the safety of residents and visitors in the region. It is clear that the US Embassy’s alert underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate action to address the ongoing security challenges in the area.