Canada issues new security alert for Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Canada issues new security alert for Mexico Canada has updated its travel advisory for Mexico to note that the U.S. Embassy has closed its consulate in Playa del Carmen.

Canada has updated its travel advisory for Mexico to note that the U.S. Embassy has now closed its consulate in the resort city of Playa del Carmen over concerns about a security threat.

The U.S. Embassy in Mexico issued a travel alert Wednesday for Playa del Carmen.

That came after 26 people were injured on Feb. 21 when an explosion ripped through a ferry as it unloaded passengers in the city. Less than two weeks later, undetonated explosives were found on a second ferry on the same route between Playa del Carmen and the island of Cozumel.

Thursday’s update to the Canadian travel advisory notes the U.S. Embassy is advising Americans that ‎its consulate in Playa del Carmen has been closed until further notice. As well, all U.S. government employees are now prohibited from travelling to Playa del Carmen until further notice.

Mexican officials issued a notice late Wednesday stating that Playa del Carmen remains safe.

"All tourism and economic activity in Playa del Carmen continues in a normal manner," the state government wrote in a statement. It noted that hotel occupancy at the resort city was at 80 per cent.

"We do not know why the U.S. government decided to emit this alert," the statement said.

Thursday’s notice from Global Affairs Canada advises against cruise excursions using ferry services in Playa del Carmen.

“Avoid tourist ferries travelling in the region until further notice, be vigilant and monitor local media (including social media),” reads the advisory.

Canadians are advised to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting all parts of Mexico “due to high levels of criminal activity, as well as demonstrations, protests and occasional illegal roadblocks.”

The Canadian government advises against non-essential travel to several northern and western states in the country.

Correction: A previous version of this story stated that three Canadians were among the injured in the Feb. 21 explosion. Global Affairs Canada issued a correction Thursday to say that while initial reports indicated three Canadians were affected, those reports were inaccurate.