U.S. restricts travel to Nogales, Mexico, over reported “threat”

The U.S. Embassy in Mexico said Saturday that it has restricted its activities and limited travel by U.S. government personnel to essential daytime movements in Nogales, Sonora, citing information about a potential “threat.”

The embassy also warned U.S. citizens about the measure and reminded them that Sonora is currently under a Level 3 travel advisory, which recommends reconsidering travel to the state.

U.S. authorities urged travelers to exercise extreme caution, seek shelter if an incident occurs, notify family and friends, follow instructions from Mexican police and monitor local media.

However, Sonora’s Security Committee said there is currently no information confirming a specific threat in Nogales. Authorities said preventive operations and surveillance will continue in the city and throughout the state.

The committee said it contacted the U.S. Consulate in Nogales after learning of the warning. The consulate confirmed that the alert was in effect but did not provide specific information about the alleged threat or any direct risk to the population.

The warning comes after a similar alert issued August 24 by the U.S. Consulate General in Mexicali, Baja California, which suspended staff activities and advised people to stay away from government buildings due to information about a possible threat. Mexican authorities later said that warning may have been related to a criminal group and the possible use of explosives against government facilities.