In a statement, the department said the Mexican government has made great advances in fighting cartel violence in the country and the department commended the government’s commitment in the effort, however they noted it’s their responsibility to warn their citizens of risks and threats in travel.

“Based on the unpredictable nature of cartel violence and other criminal elements, the department urges people to avoid travel to Mexico at this time,” said Raul Munguia, police chief of the University of Texas Rio . . .