The WTA 500 event in Merida has stepped up its security measures, with an enhanced police presence around the tournament venue after violence erupted following the death of the country’s most wanted cartel boss.

Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as ‘El Mencho’, died in custody Sunday after being seriously injured in clashes between his supporters and the army. Cervantes was the leader of the Jalisco New Generation (CJNG) cartel, and his death sparked chaos, with members of the cartel launching attacks on towns and cities in the country.

The Merida Open, which features British ace Katie Boulter, plus world No. 7 Jasmine Paolini, is in the east of the country, which has largely been unaffected by the violence. But the WTA Tour has confirmed that there is an enhanced police presence in place around the tournament venue, plus other measures in place to keep players and tournament staff safe.

Ensure our latest sport headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as a Preferred Source in your Google search settings.

In a statement provided to Express Sport, the women’s tour said: “The WTA is aware of security incidents reported in parts of western Mexico. The safety of players, staff, and spectators remains our top priority.

“The WTA tournament in Merida, located in the eastern part of the country, is operating as scheduled and there have been no reports of incidents in the region. Authorities in Yucatan State have increased police vigilance, including enhanced presence around the tournament venue. Additional security measures are in place at the tournament venue and official hotels.

“We continue to liaise with local partners and monitor official guidance, including updates from the US Embassy in Mexico.”

A men’s ATP 500 event is also taking place in Acapulco this week. British No. 2 Cameron Norrie was in action, but has already been knocked out. Alexander Zverev is also competing there. Tournament organisers were forced to issue a statement confirming that the Mexican Open would go ahead following false reports that it had been cancelled.

“The Abierto Mexicano Telcel reports that the rumors circling in the press and on social media about the tournament’s supposed cancellation due to the security issues in Jalisco are false,” organisers said on social media.

“The tournament has not issued any cancellation notice. The event will go on as scheduled and tournament operations will proceed as normal. We remain in coordination and in constant communication with federal, state and municipal authorities, following the established security protocols.”