Mexico: Multiple airports in Sinaloa and Sonora states closed as of Jan. 5 amid violence following arrest of Ovidio Guzman /update 3

Event

Severe disruptions, including airport closures, are occurring throughout Sinaloa State, particularly in Culiacan, and parts of Sonora State as of late Jan. 5 in the aftermath of the arrest of Ovidio Guzman, a leader of the Sinaloa Cartel (Cartel de Sinaloa). Authorities reportedly captured Guzman in Jesus Maria, Sinaloa State, early Jan. 5 before transferring him to a secure facility. The Sinaloa airports of Mazatlan International Airport (MZT), Los Mochis International Airport (LMM), and Culiacan International Airport (CUL) will remain closed until further notice. Officials also suspended operations at Ciudad Obregon International Airport (CEN) in Sonora State; unconfirmed reports indicate CEN may reopen at 07:00 Jan. 6, but further disruptions are possible.

The closures come amid significant violence near the airports, especially in Culiacan; Aeromexico (AM) Flight 165 to Mexico City was struck by gunfire as it was preparing to depart from CUL shortly after Guzman's arrest. There were no reports of injuries. Authorities will likely extend the closures if major violence persists, while other airports could suspend operations as a precaution. Flight delays and cancellations will likely continue throughout Sinaloa even after the airports reopen as staff work to clear flight backlogs.

Additionally, reports indicate severe disruptions to ground transport throughout Sinaloa due to the violence, with members of the Sinaloa Cartel blocking roads and hijacking and burning vehicles. The roadblocks completely blocked access to Culiacan and obstructed traffic on highways near Los Mochis and Costa Rica. Clashes and roadblocks have also occurred in Ahome, Badiraguato, Guasave, and Mazatlan; violent confrontations are likely elsewhere in the state. Sinaloa Governor Ruben Rocha has called on the public to shelter in place. Some reports indicate related disturbances in bordering areas of Sonora State. Officials have not yet made full casualty numbers known, but criminal elements ambushed and killed five security personnel in Escuinapa, Sinaloa State, who were arriving from Nayarit State to aid operations. Officials in neighboring Chihuahua, Durango, Nayarit, and Sonora states have indicated they are preparing for possible violent disruptions in their states in connection with the arrest of Guzman.

Schools and businesses throughout Culiacan were closed Jan. 5 as clashes and looting occurred during the unrest.

Military and police operations to secure the state and detain suspects will almost certainly continue into Jan. 6. Armed clashes, roadblocks, and consequent transport disruptions will likely continue for the duration of the operations. Additionally, business and educational disruptions are likely in Culiacan and other areas subject to violence or security operations, with further clashes possible in the coming days. Violent clashes may also occur in neighboring regions of Chihuahua, Durango, Nayarit, and Sonora states.

Advice

Avoid Culiacan until the situation stabilizes and authorities give the all-clear; shelter in place if already operating in the area. Refrain from traveling on highways throughout Sinaloa State. Avoid any areas where violence seems to be occurring. Exercise caution in regions bordering Sinaloa State.

Confirm flight reservations if flying via an airport in Sinaloa State or via Ciudad Obregon, Sonora State. Do not leave accommodations until onward travel is confirmed, and allow additional time to reach the airport. Book alternative travel arrangements if necessary. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and your home government. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations. Monitor local news sources for further developments.