The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Ghana has issued a travel advisory urging Ghanaian nationals in Mexico to exercise heightened caution following escalating security tensions in parts of the country.
The advisory comes in the wake of a major security operation conducted by Mexican authorities on February 22, 2026, which resulted in the death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as El Mencho, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Subsequent coordinated retaliatory actions across multiple Mexican states have triggered widespread unrest.
According to the Ministry, the unfolding situation has led to armed confrontations, incidents of arson, and road blockages, causing casualties and significant disruption to daily life.
“In view of the unfolding situation in Mexico… the Government of Ghana wishes to advise Ghanaian nationals travelling to or residing in any of the affected cities in Mexico to exercise extreme caution in their movement and refrain from non-essential travel,” the statement said.
The affected areas identified in the advisory include Jalisco, Baja California, Colima, Guanajuato, Michoacán, and Oaxaca. Authorities note that these regions have experienced varying degrees of violence and public safety challenges following the cartel retaliation.
The Ministry further encouraged Ghanaian citizens within the jurisdiction to remain in close contact with Ghana’s diplomatic mission for consular support where necessary. Ghana’s Embassy in Washington, D.C., which is concurrently accredited to Mexico, has been designated as the primary contact point for assistance.
“Ghanaian citizens in the jurisdiction are encouraged to maintain communication with the Embassy of Ghana in Washington D.C. which is concurrently accredited to Mexico for consular assistance if the need arises,” the release stated.
The Embassy’s emergency hotline has been made available to nationals requiring urgent support.
While the advisory primarily focuses on citizen safety, sustained unrest in affected regions could have broader implications for trade, logistics, and regional business operations, particularly in states such as Jalisco and Guanajuato, which host significant manufacturing and commercial activities.
The Government of Ghana also expressed diplomatic solidarity with Mexico during the ongoing crisis. The Ministry conveyed its support to Mexican authorities and confidence in their capacity to restore stability.
“The Government of the Republic of Ghana conveys its solidarity to the Government of the United Mexican States and expresses its confidence in the ability of the Mexican authorities to bring the situation under control.”
The Ministry indicated that it will continue to monitor developments closely and provide further updates as necessary.
Ghanaian businesses, students, and professionals with engagements in Mexico are urged to remain vigilant, activate contingency plans where necessary, and strictly adhere to official security guidance as the situation evolves.
