Security alert in Mexico border city over cartel threats; U.S. cites intel, Mexico urges caution

The U.S. consulate in the Mexican border city of Mexicali issued a security alert Tuesday, citing threats and advising U.S. citizens to exercise caution. However, Mexican authorities stated they have not identified specific or imminent risks to the public in the area.

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We are alerting U.S. citizens to this potential threat.

The alert was prompted by a recent operation where Mexican federal forces, with U.S. assistance, targeted a local gang associated with the powerful Sinaloa cartel. During the operation, 120 kilograms of fentanyl were seized.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum acknowledged the alert, stating that the U.S. issued it based on its own agencies' information regarding a "possibility of a criminal group there." She emphasized that the potential threat was not confirmed.

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Mexican authorities have not identified elements that confirm a specific or imminent risk to the population.

Baja California, where Mexicali is located, is among Mexico's most violent states due to drug trafficking organizations. The city, along with Tijuana, serves as a critical transit point for drugs heading to the United States. The U.S. consulate's alert led to reinforced security and patrols throughout the state, according to Baja California Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila.

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there was an alert of the possibility of a criminal group there. The U.S. government issued the alert based on information from its own agencies. The possible threat was not confirmed.