OTTAWA — Canada has issued a warning to travellers heading to Mexico, urging a "high degree of caution" due to high levels of drug-related violent crime and occasional unruly protests.

A travel report issued by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada said travellers should be particularly vigilant in northern Mexico and all cities bordering the U.S., especially in Tijuana, where firefights between military and drug cartels can erupt without warning at any time.

"Travellers should monitor local news before travelling to areas affected by turf wars," the warning states.

The department also warns against travel to Ciudad Juarez unless it is "absolutely necessary" due to escalating violence linked to drug trafficking. Noting foreigners have not been typically targeted, the report points to a March 14, 2010 incident where two Americans were shot to death in Ciudad Juarez, including a consular official.

kathleen.harris@sunmedia.ca