Puerto Vallarta tourists warned about more violence in Mexico

The Canadian and U.S. embassiesin Mexico haveissued warnings for tourists and travellers in and around Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara after anotheroutbreakof drug-gang-related violence.

The warning includes reports that gas stations, banks and other buildings have been set on fire in the states of Jalisco and Colima.Municipal police in PuertoVallarta are asking residents and visitors to remain in their homes and hotels.

The Canadian Embassy in Mexico said in a bulletin that "narco-blockades" have been erected in some areas. It advises Canadian citizens to avoid all large gatherings and demonstrations.

The Associated Press saystheincreasingly powerful Mexican drug cartel known as Jalisco New Generation has beenshowing off its muscles in a spasm of violence that killed seven people and forced down a military helicopter in western Mexico.

According to the Jalisco state prosecutors office, on April 6 at least 15 state policeofficers were killed and five others wounded inthe single deadliest gang-related attack on Mexican police in recent memory.

The Canadian government is advisingitscitizensin Mexico to get in touch with their emergency contacts in Canada in order to confirm their whereabouts and wellbeing whether or not theyhave not been affected by these events.

Emergency consular assistancein Mexico is available at:

• Embassy of Canada in Mexico Tel: (55) 5724-7900 ext. 379-3322
• Consulate of Canada in Guadalajara (33) 3671-4740 ext. 374-3340
• Consular Agency of Canada in Puerto Vallarta Tel: (322) 293-0098 & 293-0099 After hours: 01-800-706-2900 (toll free) or 00-1-800-514-0129, +1-613-996-8885 (collect where available)

Canadian government travel advice can be found attravel.gc.ca.

MAP: Puerto Vallarta -Guadalajara, Mexico