US consulate urges employees to take precautions amid gun battles in northern Mexico

The U.S. Consulate in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, warned employees to shelter in place Wednesday night amid reports of gunfire. 

“The consulate has received reports of multiple gunfights throughout the city of Nuevo Laredo,” the consulate tweeted. “U.S. government personnel are advised to shelter in place.”

SECURITY ALERT: The Consulate has received reports of multiple gunfights throughout the city of Nuevo Laredo.
U.S. government personnel are advised to shelter in place.
Actions to Take:
Seek secure shelter. Notify friends and family of your safety.Monitor local media for updates.

— USCG Nvo Laredo (@USAConNVL) January 1, 2020

At least three people have reportedly been killed in gun battles this week in the northern Mexican city, one of several that is receiving asylum-seekers from the U.S.

Francisco Cabeza de Vaca, the governor of the Mexican state Tamaulipas, which includes Nuevo Laredo, pointed the finger at the Cartel of the Northeast for causing the violence.

“After the cowardly attacks on the part of the Cartel of the Northeast in Nuevo Laredo, the (government of Tamaulipas) will not let down its guard and will continue acting with strength against criminals,” he tweeted, according to Reuters.

Three women and six children with dual U.S.-Mexican citizenship were allegedly killed by cartel members last November, drawing the attention of President Trump and U.S. officials.