US citizens are urged to remain vigilant and verify the identity of the people they interact with.
The US government is sending a direct message to any American traveling to Mexico.
The US Consulate General in Guadalajara issued a security alert for US citizens visiting or residing in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, and Nuevo Nayarit, Nayarit, following reports of kidnappings related to the use of dating apps.
The warning, issued Tuesday, notes that people have been victims of these crimes after individuals contacted them through digital platforms.
According to the Consulate’s statement, the incidents involve individuals taking advantage of the vulnerability of those seeking connections through dating apps, urging citizens to exercise caution.
U.S. authorities have recommended that citizens remain vigilant, verify the identity of people they interact with online, and report any incidents to local authorities by calling 911.
It is also suggested that the Consulate be notified to receive consular assistance in case of an emergency.
The Consulate General, now located in its new headquarters in the Monraz neighborhood, reiterated its commitment to protecting U.S. citizens in the region, which includes Jalisco, Aguascalientes, Colima, and Nayarit, where more than 300,000 Americans reside, particularly in areas such as Puerto Vallarta, Chapala, and Ajijic.
“The U.S. Consulate General reminds U.S. citizens that, in the Department of State’s travel advisory for Mexico, Jalisco is classified as “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” due to crime and kidnapping, and Nayarit is classified as “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution” due to crime,” states the alert issued by the U.S. government.
This alert follows previous warnings issued by the Consulate in response to security situations in the region, such as clashes and police operations, emphasizing the importance of following the instructions of local authorities and staying informed through reliable sources.
Source: Vanguardia
