US Consulate Issues Alert as Violence Erupts in Tijuana, Tecate & Ensenada

by Chief Editor

Tijuana, Mexico – The U.S. Consulate General in Tijuana issued an alert to its citizens on Sunday, February 22, 2026, regarding reports of road blockades and criminal activity in Tecate, Ensenada, and Tijuana.

Widespread Disruptions Reported

The Consulate reported that its personnel have been instructed to shelter in place. Citizens are advised to stay informed of local news and to notify friends and family of their status and location. These instructions follow reports of widespread disruptions, including the burning of cargo trucks, the seizure of a passenger bus, and the deliberate spilling of oil on both the toll and free roads between Tijuana and Tecate.

Did You Know? U.S. Citizens can call (55) 5080 2000 from Mexico or 011 52 55 5080 2000 from the U.S. For emergency assistance.

Within Tijuana, a taxi was reportedly burned on Avenida Internacional, and a OXXO convenience store was set ablaze near the Rosas Magallón bypass. Additional vehicles were reportedly set on fire in the Playas de Tijuana and Zona Centro neighborhoods.

Expert Insight: The Consulate’s rapid response and alert to citizens underscores the potential for instability following significant events. Issuing shelter-in-place instructions is a standard protocol designed to prioritize the safety of personnel and citizens during periods of heightened risk.

The Consulate encourages U.S. Citizens to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) here to receive timely safety and security updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What areas are affected by the travel alert?

The U.S. Consulate General in Tijuana has issued an alert due to reports of road blockades and criminal activity in Tecate, Ensenada, and Tijuana.

What is the Consulate advising U.S. Citizens to do?

The Consulate is instructing its personnel to shelter in place and advising U.S. Citizens to stay informed of local news, notify friends and family of their status, and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

What types of disruptions have been reported?

Reports include the burning of cargo trucks, the seizure of a passenger bus, and the deliberate spilling of oil on roads between Tijuana and Tecate, as well as vehicle fires within Tijuana itself.

Given the current situation, what steps might travelers consider taking to ensure their safety in the region?

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