Violence broke out across several Mexican states hours after the army killed Nemesio Oseguera, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation cartel, on Sunday.

Gunmen believed to be his supporters blocked highways and set fire to vehicles and shops, while authorities in some cities urged residents and tourists to remain indoors.

Truck drivers were advised to use secure routes or return to their depots until the unrest subsided.

Several airlines, including Air Canada, United Airlines and Aeromexico, cancelled flights to the coastal resort of Puerto Vallarta, where tourists posted images of smoke rising into the sky from burning vehicles.

The violence spread to more than six states, in scenes analysts say are reminiscent of recurring flare-ups in a country that has spent two decades waging war on drug cartels, destabilising large parts of the nation.

Mexican authorities did not immediately provide a toll of casualties linked to the unrest.