The CJNG is estimated to be worth more than £10bn and has tens of thousands of members. It has been responsible for a series of killings of politicians, massacres and kidnappings since its formation in 2009.
But some cartel figures retain a level of popularity within local communities in Mexico, as they provide financing for local infrastructure and facilities.
“The response by the CJNG is, in a way, required by the rules of the game – if you have your leader nabbed, you have to respond, otherwise you look weak,” said Dr Eskauriatza.
“They are not idiots – they know that social media will film and amplify these videos for them and and they have made sure the response looks national.”
The US government has advised Americans in Jalisco to shelter indoors until further notice, while fellow World Cup co-host nation Canada has cancelled flights to the Puerto Vallarta airport, and flight tracking apps showed many aeroplanes returning to their departure destinations around the world.
“In terms of tourists, I would say there will be a moderate risk for them,” said Karina Garcia-Reyes, senior lecturer in criminology at UWE Bristol.
“Unless more military operations are conducted this week, I would expect that the authorities in the most affected areas will be able address potential risks, so overall I would expect tourists to be safe as long as they follow the authorities’ indications.”
