US consulate warns of gun battles, IEDs, kidnappings in Mexican border towns near Texas

American officials in Mexico have issued a dire warning for travelers amid escalating violence in a town on the Texas border. The State Department has raised the travel advisory for Tamaulipas, Mexico, to a Level 4: Do not travel, due to an increase in gun battles, kidnappings, and improvised explosive devices.

The town of Tamaulipas sits across the border from McAllen, Texas, making it a critical area for American travelers. The State Department has cautioned U.S. government employees to avoid all travel in and around Reynosa and Rio Bravo outside of daylight hours, as well as to steer clear of dirt roads throughout Tamaulipas.

Authorities are urging Americans to exercise caution, advising them not to touch unknown objects near or on roads and to plan their travel during daylight hours. It is also recommended for travelers to notify family and friends of their whereabouts for safety purposes.

The Level 4 warning from the State Department signifies a “greater likelihood of life-threatening risks,” and warns that the U.S. government may have limited ability to provide assistance, especially during emergencies, in areas under the highest-level advisory.

Last year, McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos expressed frustration with the lack of action on immigration, stating that the American people were “exhausted” by lawmakers’ inaction. Immigration has been a significant issue in recent years, with both President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris making visits to the border.

President Trump has made significant changes to U.S. immigration policy since taking office, with a focus on enforcement and removal of criminal elements. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem recently joined an immigration enforcement raid in New York City, targeting individuals with serious criminal charges.

Incoming border czar Tom Homan has pledged to carry out the largest deportation operation in the country’s history, focusing on public safety threats. The State Department continues to monitor travel advisories for Mexico and other countries, providing an interactive map on its website to help travelers stay informed.

As the situation in Tamaulipas, Mexico, remains precarious, it is crucial for travelers to stay vigilant and heed the warnings issued by the State Department to ensure their safety while abroad.