Canadian authorities report an increase in crime rates in crimes of kidnapping, extortion, homicides, and vehicle theft
The government of Canada recommended its citizens not to travel to 13 states of Mexico to avoid contagion by Covid and in view of the danger derived from the insecurity that exists in part of the republic.
“Violent crimes, including homicides, kidnappings, vehicle thefts, and extortion continue to increase year after year, throughout the country in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations. Be extremely cautious when traveling to Mexico City and the surrounding municipalities in the State of Mexico, where crime rates have increased in recent years.
The Canadian embassy reports an increase in crime rates in the crimes of kidnapping, extortion, homicides, and vehicle theft.
In the alert, it stands out that the same police officers extort tourists or arrest them for minor crimes or interact with them when they drive rental cars.
This is why they recommend that their citizens ask for the name of the officer, write down the patrol number and license plates, as well as refuse to give their passport or money if they do not identify themselves.
Although Mexico City is not on the black list, it is noted that the Metro of the metropolitan capital is usually very crowded and is a popular place where pickpockets operate; so thefts are frequent.
List of states
1) Chihuahua.
2) Colima, except the city of Manzanillo
3) Coahuila, except the southern part of the state
4) Durango
5) Guerrero, except the cities of Ixtapa / Zihuatanejo and Taxco
6) Guanajuato
7) Michoacán
8) Morelos
9) Nayarit
10) Nuevo León, except the city of Monterrey
11) Sinaloa, except the city of Mazatlán.
12) Sonora, except the cities of Hermosillo and Guaymas / San Carlos and Puerto Peñasco
13) Tamaulipas
It should be noted that the exceptions indicated by the Canadian authorities are due to the fact that these tourist destinations are perceived as safe and with low crime rates.
Crime
Violent crimes, including homicides, kidnappings, carjacking and extortions continue to increase year after year, nationwide in Mexico, even in popular tourist destinations. Remain extremely cautious if you’re traveling in Mexico City and surrounding municipalities in the State of Mexico where crime rates have been rising in recent years.
While most incidents appear to be gang-related, innocent bystanders may be injured or killed. You may be in the wrong place at the wrong time and become a victim of violent crime.
Arrest and detention rates are low and don’t deter criminal activity.
If you plan on traveling to Mexico:
- remain vigilant at all times
- stay in tourist areas
- be very cautious on major highways
- avoid travelling at night
- monitor local media closely
If you are the victim of a crime, you must report it immediately to local authorities. No criminal investigation is possible without a formal complaint. Complaints must be made in person before leaving Mexico.
Organized crime
Criminal groups, including drug cartels, are very active. Clashes between cartels or gangs over territory, drugs, and smuggling routes are common, resulting in a high level of violence. Criminal activity is high nationwide, including in touristic states and cities.
In some parts of the country, military, navy and federal police forces have been deployed to combat organized crime and improve security conditions. They maintain a visible presence by patrolling the streets, setting up roadblocks and conducting random vehicle checks.
Borders and surrounding areas
Border areas often see higher criminal activity and violence; including in rural areas. Confrontations between organized criminal groups and Mexican authorities continue to pose a risk. Shootouts, attacks, and illegal roadblocks may occur without warning.
- remain extremely vigilant
- use only official border crossings
- avoid travelling at night
Source: elsoldemexico.com.mx, travel.gc.ca
