TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed Tuesday that all Taiwanese in Mexico are safe following violence in Jalisco state the previous day.

The Mexican military killed Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera during a raid on Monday. Twenty-five National Guard troops were killed in the raid. Afterward, cartel members set public facilities, including stores and gas stations, on fire and warned residents not to leave their homes.

MOFA Spokesperson Hsiao Kuang-wei (蕭光偉) urged Taiwanese in Mexico to temporarily avoid traveling to Jalisco and surrounding states, including Tamaulipas, Michoacan, Guerrero and Nuevo Leon. Those in Mexico should also avoid non-essential outings, Hsiao added.

The spokesperson said the ministry would maintain close contact with the local Taiwanese community and monitor developments in Mexico. Appropriate measures will be taken to safeguard the safety of Taiwanese nationals abroad, she said.

The ministry said Taiwanese in Mexico who require emergency assistance may call the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Mexico emergency hotline at +52-55-5419-0894. Family members in Taiwan may contact the ministry’s Emergency Contact Center at 0800-085-095 for help.