Mexican Open to proceed in Acapulco despite violence after death of cartel boss

El Mencho, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), died in custody on Sunday shortly after being captured by Mexican special forces.

He had reportedly sustained serious injuries during clashes between his supporters and the Mexican army in the western state of Jalisco earlier that day.

In the aftermath of his death, members of the CJNG - regarded as one of the most powerful and feared criminal organisations in Mexico - have torched businesses and erected burning road blockades. The unrest has heightened security concerns across several regions of the country.

The Mexican Open is scheduled to begin on Monday in Acapulco, a coastal city in the state of Guerrero. Guerrero is one of five Mexican states where the US government has advised its citizens to shelter in place due to the escalating violence.

Despite the volatile situation, tournament officials said preparations remain on track, signalling their intention to proceed with the event under heightened security measures.

"The supposed cancellation of the event due to security issues in Jalisco is false. The event continues as scheduled and tournament operations are proceeding normally," a statement from the Mexican Open read.

"We remain in coordination and constant communication with federal, state, and municipal authorities, under the established security protocols." 

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