The United States has escalated its border security measures, significantly disrupting Mexican drug cartel operations. In response to escalating violence, the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for the Mexican state of Tamaulipas, which borders Texas.
The advisory highlights severe criminal activities in the region, including gun battles, kidnappings, and the use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) by criminal organizations. Notably, an IED recently destroyed a Mexican government vehicle in Rio Bravo, injuring its occupant. Travelers are urged to avoid dirt roads, refrain from touching unknown objects near roadways, and limit travel to daylight hours.
Earlier this week, a suspected Mexican cartel member fired a gunshot from the Mexican side of the U.S.-Mexico border toward U.S. Border Patrol agents in Fronton, Texas.
Former DEA Senior Special Agent Michael Brown noted that cartels had previously exploited lax border security, but recent crackdowns have disrupted their billion-dollar operations, leading to retaliatory actions.
The State Department’s advisory underscores the life-threatening risks in Tamaulipas, emphasizing that the U.S. government’s ability to provide assistance in emergencies is extremely limited. Travelers are advised to exercise heightened caution, avoid high-risk areas, and stay informed about local conditions.
The advisory warns that cartel violence often occurs without warning, placing even innocent bystanders at risk.
