Mexico: Government forces end clashes with armed assailants in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, May 18 as of late May 18 /update 1

Event

Government forces have regained control of Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, as of late May 18, following heavy clashes with armed assailants. Authorities have lifted the order to take shelter but have urged civilians to exercise precautions. Blockades affecting roads in the area have been cleared.

At approximately 14:30, exchanges of gunfire occurred near a shopping center in the Los Encinos neighbourhood, with further clashes likely in other areas. Armed individuals seized the vehicles of private citizens and used them to establish blockades to hinder the deployment of government security forces. Several businesses were hit by gunfire and entered by armed individuals. Reports indicate that the assailants were members of the Northeast Cartel (Cartel del Noreste, CDN), the dominant drug trafficking organization (DTO) in Nuevo Laredo. The Mexican armed forces deployed to counter the violence; reports indicate that DTO members shot at a military helicopter. City authorities had advised the public to take shelter in the nearest safe building. There have as yet been no reports of casualties.

A heightened security presence is almost certain over the coming hours as authorities secure the area and investigate the incident. Further violence is possible. Disruptions to local transit are likely as authorities carry out their investigation.

Advice

Strictly heed the instructions of local security personnel. If further violence occurs, take shelter immediately in a secure, non-government building. Confirm appointments. Plan for localized transit disruptions.