Mexico 2020 Crime & Safety Report: Nogales

This is an annual report produced in conjunction with the Regional Security Office at the U.S. Consulate in Nogales. OSAC encourages travelers to use this report to gain baseline knowledge of security conditions in the northern portion of the State of Sonora. For more in-depth information, review OSAC’s Mexico country page for original OSAC reporting, consular messages, and contact information, some of which may be available only to private-sector representatives with an OSAC password.

Travel Advisory

The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses Mexico at Level 2, indicating travelers should exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping. Reconsider travel to Sonora (Level 3) due to crime. Review OSAC’s report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System.

Overall Crime and Safety Situation

2019 was the most violent year on record in Mexico with 35,558 reported homicides. Murder increased 2.7% nationwide since 2018, now the second-most violent year on record.

Crime Threats

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Nogales as being a CRITICAL-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

The overall level of crime in Sonora increased in 2019. Homicide, vehicle theft, home invasions, and incidents of rape all increased in 2019. Reported incidents of kidnapping and rape decreased. Violence related to Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCO, drug cartels) continues to dominate as the motive behind many of the homicides and violent crimes in the Nogales district. Most TCO-related violence has occurred in other cities, such as Caborca, Magdalena, and Altar. In 2018, intense gun battles and assassinations took place in Magdalena and Caborca. Gunmen opened fire on a convoy carrying three women and six children near Bavispe, Sonora, in November 2019; it is likely that a TCO was behind the attack. In 2018, there were 147 reported homicides in the Nogales consular district. In 2019, that number increased by two-thirds, to 248.

Non-drug cartel related street crime (e.g. armed robbery, assault, burglary) continues to occur in the Nogales Consular District, with some categories showing significant change. In 2019, petty theft and muggings not associated with TCOs increased. Review OSAC’s report, All That You Should Leave Behind.

No area of Nogales is immune from violent crime. However, consider the area between El Periferico highway and Avenida Obregon safer than outlying suburban areas. The violent crimes that do occur in this area generally happen after dark. Travel through the city only during daylight hours. Avoid walking after dark in Nogales. Most businesses close by 2200. Avoid bars and nightclubs, which provide a dangerous mix of guns, drugs, and cartel personnel.

Mexican laws prohibit ownership of personal firearms. Most firearms present in the consular district belong to Mexican law enforcement and military via legitimate means and narco-trafficking criminal elements via illegitimate means. Most narco-trafficking elements possess weapons of various size, including assault rifles, grenades, and belt-fed machine guns. However, the most common weapons involved in narco-related crimes are 9-mm pistols and 7.62-caliber assault rifles. During the 2018-2019 period, most gun violence in the consular district took place in more remote parts of town and/or in late-night hours.

Residential burglaries in the Nogales consular district increased 200% from 2018 to 2019. These crimes are most common during the day and on weekends or holidays, when houses are vacant. Thieves often gain entry through unsecured entryways, by tricking domestic employees or using force to access homes that appear to be vacant.

The theft of vehicles, carjacking, and theft of parts from parked vehicles remain the most prevalent crimes in the Nogales consular district. There were 510 reported vehicle thefts in 2019, a significant increase from 322 in 2018. TCOs look to steal heavy-duty pick-up trucks and SUVs for their ability to carry heavy loads at high speed across difficult terrain.

Organized criminal gangs continue to cause significant levels of violence throughout parts of the country. Mexico is experiencing a combination of conditions that collectively degrade the security environment in certain areas. The government has captured some of its most wanted criminals. Consequently, organized criminal groups are becoming much less organized and disciplined. The northern half of Mexico had been a higher-threat area, primarily due to organized criminal conflicts and competition for drug trafficking routes to the U.S. However, recent statistics show that violence is on the rise in central and southern states as well, particularly in Guerrero, Michoacán, and Estado de México.

Various groups have splintered into smaller gangs, which have branched out into different illegal business activities, and associated violence is spreading across Mexico. One common practice is for gangs to charge protection fees or add their own tax to products/services, with the threat of violence for those who fail to pay. Extortionists have targeted foreign and U.S. companies, attacked some for not responding to demands. Some criminal groups will mandate that individuals or even whole communities work for them as lookouts or couriers. Others will threaten municipal and state administrators into accepting corrupt practices. Beheadings, lynching, torture, and other gruesome displays of violence, as well as high numbers of forced disappearances, have become routine occurrences, including in the Mexico City metropolitan area. Criminals have killed numerous journalists and bloggers for reporting on these incidents. Regarding cartel violence, wrong-place/wrong-time incidents present the greatest threat to personal safety. The best ways to reduce the risk is to practice good personal security habits, especially maintaining high situational awareness and promptly departing from potentially dangerous situations.

The Government of Mexico along with the Tamaulipas and Coahuila state governments continue to engage in efforts to combat Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs), especially along the border. To prevent and combat violence, the federal government has deployed military troops, federal police, and the national guard throughout the country. The location and timing of armed engagements are unpredictable. The vast majority of those killed in such engagements have been members of TCOs and Mexican security forces, but innocent bystanders have died in shootouts between TCOs and Mexican officials.

There are numerous reports in which criminals skimmed U.S. credit/debit card numbers, stealing the money in their debit accounts or fraudulently charging their credit cards. Skimming is the theft of credit card information by an employee of a legitimate merchant or bank, manually copying down numbers or using a magnetic stripe reader or using a camera and skimmer installed in an ATM. In addition to skimming, the risk of physical theft of credit or debit cards also exists. Try to use ATMs in bank branches during business hours. Visitors on day trips should use U.S. ATMs prior to crossing into Mexico; Mexican establishments accept U.S. dollars widely. Portable credit card terminals are widely available in Mexico, and travelers should always request the establishment bring a portable credit card terminal to them to charge their credit card in their physical presence. Review OSAC’s reports, The Overseas Traveler’s Guide to ATM Skimmers & Fraud and Taking Credit.

Review OSAC’s reports, Hotels: The Inns and Outs and Considerations for Hotel Security.

Cybersecurity Issues

Review OSAC’s reports, Cybersecurity Basics, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi, Traveling with Mobile Devices: Trends & Best Practices, and Satellite Phones: Critical or Contraband?

Transportation-Safety Situation

Road Safety and Road Conditions

Driving in Nogales requires vigilance, a defensive attitude, and Mexican insurance. Local drivers are generally not very experienced and often have cars that are poorly maintained or in disrepair. Be alert for vehicles moving slower than the rest of the traffic, and for vehicles speeding through traffic signals at the last minute. Poor lighting, unclear road makings, and lack of signage contribute to hazardous driving conditions. Exercise caution around public buses, which are not known for their safe driving practices. Pedestrians, to include small children, jaywalk often with disregard for personal safety.

Driving while intoxicated is against the law in Mexico. The Municipal Police Department (Policia Municipal) enforces legitimate DUI checkpoints within the Nogales city limits. These legitimate checkpoints have adequate markings, are located on major roads, and almost exclusively operate in the evening hours. The government has also deployed federal police and military personnel to combat organized criminal groups. Police also set up various administrative checkpoints in and around cities (speed control, sobriety checkpoints) and along the highways (vehicle registration checkpoints). However, criminal organizations sometimes erect their own unauthorized checkpoints and have killed/abducted motorists who fail to stop and/or pay a “toll.” Likewise, self-defense groups have established checkpoints in their communities and have shot and wounded travelers who fail to stop. When approaching a checkpoint, regardless of whether it is official, cooperate and avoid any actions that may appear suspicious or aggressive.

During the rainy season (July-September), localized flash flooding may occur on many of the main and side streets in Nogales. Flash floods leave many vehicles stalled in the middle of streets and intersections. Cars swept into deeper water is one of the most common dangers of the rainy season. During heavy rainstorms, avoid driving and walking on flooded streets. Additionally, flooding of residential areas and city streets can occur in all areas of the consular district. In Nogales, Blvd. Tecnologico is notorious for flooding. It can experience rushing water up to three feet deep in places, making the street inaccessible and dangerous. Due to the rapid onset of flash flooding, city emergency workers rarely place road closure signs. During each rainy season, large sinkholes have occurred throughout the city; bridges have washed out, and flash floods have trapped or injured individuals. Authorities are not always quick to repair resulting road damage, leaving potholes that can damage your car, or cause drivers to swerve into your lane or brake unexpectedly. Be wary when traveling roadways during the rainy season, and pay attention to weather forecasts.

During peak travel times like weekends and holidays, travelers should be prepared for long wait times when crossing back into the United States. Toll lanes and ports of entry alike can experience significant delays at times. Continued concerns regarding road safety along the border have prompted the U.S. Consulate to impose restrictions on U.S. government employees transiting the area.

Driving in Mexico requires vigilance. Drivers are not uniformly experienced, and often drive cars in disrepair. Be alert for vehicles moving slower than the rest of the traffic flow, and for vehicles speeding through traffic signals at the last minute. Give a wide berth to public buses and trucks.

Minor steering mistakes that can normally be corrected on a road with wide and level shoulders often cannot be easily corrected, causing drivers to lose control of their vehicles. Many vehicles drive with defective or inoperable lights at night. Signage and traffic lights are improving but are not always clear. Road damage is not always quickly repaired, leaving potholes which can damage your car or cause drivers to swerve or brake unexpectedly.

Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of U.S. citizen deaths in Mexico. If you have an emergency while driving, dial 911. On a cuota or any other major highway, contact the Green Angels, a fleet of trucks with bilingual crews, by dialing 078 from any phone in Mexico.

A variety of road conditions exist throughout the region. Toll (cuota) highways are comparable to U.S. interstate highway standards with multiple traffic lanes and broad paved shoulders. The cuotas generally have better lighting, frequent police patrols, fewer access points (on/off-ramps), and are generally a safer method of overland transit, but their isolation leaves travelers vulnerable to crime, especially at night. Speed, nighttime travel, weather (especially the summer rainy season), unfamiliarity with the road, lack of lighting, and other elements are contributing factors to serious traffic accidents and incidents on highways. Drivers can reduce the risk of carjacking by limiting intercity travel to daylight hours.

Non-toll (libre) highways are usually in poorer condition. They are usually two-lane roads with no shoulder. There are more reported incidents of carjacking and shootouts between rival criminal groups, particularly after dark, on the libre highways.

Plan routes ahead of travel, and notify family/friends of your itinerary. Keep a charged cell phone with you and know how to reach friends and family in an emergency. Ensure vehicles are roadworthy and maintain a full-size spare tire in case of a flat.

Road conditions in urban areas can also vary considerably. In upscale or tourist neighborhoods of major cities, the roads are in good condition, whereas roads are often in poor condition in marginalized areas. There are large speed bumps installed around major cities, including on some highways, that often lack appropriate markings. Drivers should be alert for changing road conditions. Drivers routinely disobey even the most fundamental traffic laws and commonly treat red lights like stop signs, crossing as soon as they have checked for opposing traffic.

U.S. driver’s licenses are valid in Mexico. Mexican law requires that only owners drive their vehicles or that the owner be inside the vehicle. Failing to abide by this law may lead to impoundment and a fine equal to the value of the vehicle. Mexican citizens who are not also U.S. Legal Permanent Residents (LPR) or U.S. citizens may not operate U.S.-registered vehicles in Mexico. Mexican insurance is mandatory for all vehicles, including rental vehicles; insurance associated with U.S. credit cards is insufficient. Maintain Mexican liability insurance in the event of a vehicle accident. Driving under the influence of alcohol, using a mobile device while driving, and driving through a yellow light are all illegal in Mexico.

Those driving their own vehicle into Mexico beyond the immediate border area (approximately 12 miles into the country) must apply for a temporary vehicle import permit. The permit requires the presentation of a valid passport and a monetary deposit that you will retrieve upon leaving Mexico before the expiration of the permit. Failing to apply for a temporary vehicle import permit may lead to impoundment and a fine equal to the value of the vehicle.

Vehicles crossing into Mexico must have a valid license plate and registration sticker. Mexican authorities will often refuse to admit vehicles with temporary or paper license plates. Authorities may confiscate vehicles with expired registration or unauthorized plates and charge the operator with a fine equal to the value of the vehicle.

It is common for strangers to approach vehicles asking for directions or change, handing out flyers, washing windows, or selling goods. Be alert, lock doors, and keep windows up far enough in case they are not well intentioned. When stopped in traffic, leave adequate distance between vehicles to escape. Do not stop to assist strangers whose vehicles appear broken down.

Park inside a residential compound, in a parking lot with an attendant, or at least within view of the location of your visit. When parking in the lot of a shopping facility, park as close as possible to the store entrance and away from dumpsters, bushes, or large vehicles.

Review OSAC’s reports, Road Safety Abroad, Driving Overseas: Best Practices, and Evasive Driving Techniques; and read the State Department’s webpage on driving and road safety abroad.

Public Transportation Conditions

Avoid using public transportation services in the Nogales Consular District, based on the lack of viable security vetting and the depth of narco-trafficking influence over taxi services. Rideshare services are extremely limited in Nogales. However, the same security and safety concerns exist with those services as with the traditional taxis.

Aviation/Airport Conditions

The Embassy advises that its employees fly, rather than drive, between many Mexican destinations.

Airports are generally secure and well policed. Sitio taxis are usually available from a kiosk in the arrival terminal of the airport and require travelers to prepay fares at the kiosk before exiting the airport and boarding a taxi.

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Mexico’s Civil Aviation Authority as compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Mexico’s air carrier operations.

Be prepared for U.S.-styled security screening and unpredictable wait times and travel delays from all airports in the region.

Terrorism Threat

The U.S. Department of State has assessed all posts in Mexico as being a LOW-threat locations for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

The U.S. Embassy focuses on Mexico as a potential transit country for foreign terrorist groups to conduct operations against the U.S. There are no known foreign terrorist organizations operating/residing in or transiting through Mexico, and there is no evidence that any terrorist group has targeted U.S. citizens in Mexico. Mexico does not provide safe haven to terrorists or terrorist groups. However, the nature of the border and the ready access to human traffickers, lax immigration controls, the abundance of fake Mexican travel documents and Mexico's geographic location potentially make the country an attractive transit point for transnational terrorists. These vulnerabilities make cross-border transit of people and goods a key concern. Businesses conducting cross-border trade should be aware of this vulnerability, as terrorist and criminal organizations could use legitimate business transport to traffic people or items across borders. To mitigate this risk, U.S. Customs and Border Protection operates the C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) program in Mexico.

Local authorities cooperate with relevant U.S. government agencies on persons of interest. Criminal organizations have used terror-like tactics (e.g. car bombs, grenades) to attack each other and security forces. Though they commit gruesome acts of violence designed to terrorize, the purpose of these acts is criminal in nature, directed largely at rival gangs, and not for a larger political agenda.

Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence

Political violence against Mexican politicians is common and stems from widespread corruption.

Civil Unrest

The U.S. Department of State has assessed all posts in Mexico as being HIGH-threat locations for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

Over the past several years, there have been several peaceful demonstrations in the Nogales area, taking place at or near the DeConcini Port of Entry or the fiscal corridor heading to the Mariposa Port of Entry. These demonstrations are generally orderly and comply with police orders.

In January 2017, there were several large-scale demonstrations, in some case with over 2,000 individuals, protesting the Government of Mexico’s policy on fuel prices. On several occasions, the protestors interfered with the flow of traffic into Mexico, prompting authorities in the U.S. and Mexico to close the DeConcini Border crossing temporarily and redirect traffic to Mariposa. In one case, protesters at the DeConcini border crossing turned violent and clashed with police. Police regained control and restored order. There was no loss of life or serious injuries.

In November 2018, protests in Nogales followed the acquittal of a U.S. Border Patrol Officer in the 2012 wrongful death case of sixteen-year-old Jose Rodriguez. Protestors marched in disapproval of the verdict. There were no reports of violence or injury.

Due to recent controversy surrounding migration issues along the border of the United States and Mexico, the possibility of future protests and demonstrations remain a constant possibility. With an extremely unpredictable flashpoint, protests could potentially effect border operations and traveler passage through ports of entry with little to no warning. Travelers are reminded to make preparations and have a reaction plan developed before a border closure occurs.

Protesters in Mexico may block traffic on roads, including major thoroughfares, or take control of toll booths on highways. Those who encounter protesters demanding unofficial tolls are generally allowed to pass upon payment. Non-Mexican nationals should avoid participating in demonstrations and other activities that authorities might deem political, as Mexican law prohibits political activities by foreign citizens and such actions may result in detention and/or deportation. Review OSAC’s report, Surviving a Protest.

Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment

There have been no reports of anti-U.S. sentiment towards U.S. citizens or interests (official or non-official). U.S. interests are generally not targets of political violence. Many Mexican citizens have visas for entry into the United States, and frequently travel there for both business and pleasure. There are strong family ties on both sides of the border.

Post-specific Concerns

Environmental Hazards

During the rainy season (July-September), flooding of residential areas and city streets can occur in all areas of the consular district. High-clearance vehicles are helpful in these situations. Heavy precipitation can close roads and cause significant delays.

Many areas experience extreme temperatures. Temperatures can reach over 115° Fahrenheit during summer months. Exercise extra precaution when traveling to isolated locations and/or in between major travel destinations. Review OSAC’s report, Dangers of Excessive Heat.

Critical Infrastructure

Given the large number of corporations and manufacturing plants in Nogales, mishandling of hazardous materials is a viable possibility. Although there have been no reported incidents between 2014-2019, it remains a potential that the local government and the private sector monitor closely. In 2018, the cities of Nogales, Arizona and Nogales, Sonora participated in a joint training exercise that included hazardous material identification, unified operating procedure development and a joint citywide hazardous material response drill. The drill involved a railroad emergency scenario and demonstrated that the region has adequate HAZMAT response capabilities.

Economic Concerns/Intellectual Property Theft

The Sinaloa cartel has infiltrated many levels of society in Nogales. Conducting periodic personnel background checks on employees is a very good practice. However, given the size and population of Nogales and the state of Sonora as a whole, it would be difficult to hire a sizable workforce that is completely insulated from TCOs. Best practice calls for the use of periodic employee interviews and initial/periodic background checks.

Mexico appears on the Watch List in the 2019 Special 301 Report, noting inadequate intellectual property rights (IPR) enforcement and the wide availability of pirated/counterfeit goods, mostly via physical and virtual markets. Criminal organizations are significantly involved in the counterfeit and pirated goods trade. Enforcement efforts suffer from weak coordination among federal, state, and municipal officials; limited resources for prosecutions; lack of long-term sustained investigations to target high-level suppliers; and the need for deterrent level penalties. The U.S. continues to encourage Mexico to provide its customs officials with ex-officio authority, to allow the Attorney General Offices the authority to prosecute transshipments of alleged counterfeit and pirated goods, and to enact legislation to strengthen its copyright regime, including the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Internet Treaties. The U.S. also continues to work with Mexico to resolve IPR concerns through bilateral, regional, and other means of engagement.

The law covering misappropriation of trade secrets also covers economic espionage activity. The three sources of trade secrets law are the Industrial Property Law, Federal Criminal Code, and NAFTA, all of which provide fines and criminal penalties for misappropriation of trade secrets. There have been extremely limited prosecutions of trade secret misappropriation due to onerous legal requirements and evidentiary issues tied to proving theft of digital files.

Exercise caution when considering investments or purchasing real estate, and be aware of the aggressive tactics some sales representatives use. Before initiating a real estate purchase or time-share investment, consult with a Mexican attorney to learn about important regulations and laws that govern real property.

Cargo theft remains a key area of concern for U.S. and foreign companies. FreightWatch International ranks the level of cargo crime in Mexico as “severe,” its worst ranking, primarily because the supply chain continues to face threats from cargo criminals, corrupt law enforcement personnel, and, to a smaller extent, organized crime. Insurance policies have increased as a result; some no longer provide coverage for overnight cargo travel.

Even with the reported rise in hacking and violations to cyber security globally, Nogales falls well below the global average for privacy violations and cyber intrusions.

Personal Identity Concerns

The issue of femicide, defined as killing a woman because of her gender (as opposed to any killing of a woman) has been a major issue in Mexico, and is a federal offense punishable by 40 to 60 years in prison. It is also a criminal offense in all states. According to Interior Secretariat statistics, in the first six months of 2019, prosecutors and attorneys general opened 387 investigations into 402 cases of femicide throughout the country.

Rape and sexual assault are serious problems in some resort areas. Many incidents occur at night or during the early morning hours, in hotel rooms, on hotel grounds, or on deserted beaches. Assailants have drugged the drinks of victims before assaulting them. Pay attention to your surroundings and maintain positive control of your drink. Review OSAC’s report, Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad.

Mexico City and the states of Chihuahua, Jalisco, Puebla, and Yucatan have criminalized the distribution of “revenge pornography” and “sextortion.” Individuals may be prosecuted for publishing or distributing intimate images, audio, videos, or texts without the consent of the other party. Review the State Department’s webpage on security for female travelers.

Same-sex sexual relations are legal in Mexico. The law provides for protections against discrimination based on gender identity. Travelers will find more openness and acceptance in urban areas, and conservative stances in rural areas. Discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity was prevalent, despite a gradual increase in public tolerance of LGBTI+ individuals, according to public opinion surveys. There were reports the government did not always investigate and punish those complicit in abuses, especially outside Mexico City. A poll conducted during the year found six of every 10 members of the LGBTI+ community reported experiencing discrimination in the past year, and more than half suffered hate speech and physical aggression. Civil society groups claimed police routinely subjected LGBTI+ persons to mistreatment while in custody. Due to sporadic reports of violence targeting LGBTI+ individuals, travelers should exercise discretion in identifying themselves publicly as LGBTI+. Review the State Department’s webpage on security for LGBTI+ travelers.

The Jewish community experiences low levels of anti-Semitism, but there are reports of some anti-Semitic expressions through social media. Jewish community representatives report good cooperation with the government and other religious and civil society organizations in addressing rare instances of such acts. The Catholic Multimedia Center reported criminal groups targeted priests and other religious leaders in some parts of the country and subjected them to extortion, death threats, and intimidation. Review OSAC’s report, Freedom to Practice, and the State Department’s webpage on security for faith-based travelers.

Travelers with disabilities should consult individual hotels and facilities in advance of travel to ensure they are accessible. Mexican law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, and mental disabilities in employment and education, as well as access to health care, transportation, and other services, but the government does not enforce the law effectively. Public buildings and facilities often do not comply with the law requiring access for persons with disabilities. Review the State Department’s webpage on security for travelers with disabilities.

Drug-related Crime

Mexico is a major drug-producing and transit nation. Drug trafficking continues to be a significant issue throughout the country, affecting the security climate and influencing local politics. Drug-related violence in Mexico mostly involves those involved in the drug trade or those fighting against it.

Mexico is the world's third-largest producer of opium, with poppy cultivation in 2015 yielding a potential production of 475 metric tons of raw opium. The government conducts the largest independent illicit-crop eradication program in the world. Mexico continues to be the primary transshipment country for U.S.-bound cocaine from South America, with an estimated 95% of annual cocaine movements toward the U.S. stopping in Mexico. Major drug syndicates (TCOs) control most of the drug trafficking throughout the country. Mexico is a producer and distributor of ecstasy, a major supplier of heroin, and the largest foreign supplier of marijuana and methamphetamine to the U.S. market.

In 2007, military personnel began counter-drug cartel operations along the smuggling routes of both Mexican coasts. Accordingly, the routes out of Mexico and into the U.S. market have shifted to the land routes including the two ports of entry in Nogales. As a result, drug cartel-related violence in Nogales increased exponentially in 2009, as the Sinaloa cartel and the remnants of the Beltran Leyva cartel fought for drug routes. While nearly all the violence has been between warring cartels, there have been innocent people caught in the crossfire.

Kidnapping Threat

The number of kidnappings reported throughout Mexico, while difficult to determine, is concerning. Most cases go unreported to authorities, as the popular belief is that the police may be involved or are unable to resolve the situation. Victims of traditional kidnappings are physically abducted and held captive until a ransom is paid. Most cases reported to U.S. Mission Mexico have been kidnapping for ransom (KFR). In some KFR cases, the captors receive a ransom and set the victim free; in others, the captors kill the victim despite having received a ransom. Affluent residents in Mexico City often have bodyguards and armored vehicles for their families.

The FBI investigated 219 kidnapping events in Mexico in 2019 (106 events in 2018). In 95 of them, the victim was a U.S. citizen, and in 22, the victim was a U.S. Legal Permanent Resident. Of the cases, 135 were KFRs, 73 were virtual kidnappings, and in 11 there was no ransom demand. Over the past few years, cartel-related kidnappings have occurred in Nogales and throughout the state of Sonora. Victims of these kidnappings include U.S. and Mexican citizens involved in the drug trade. Overall, the number of reported kidnapping in Nogales and northern Sonora in 2019 decreased (from 72 to 20), but it remains an issue.

The number of reported express kidnappings is low. Express kidnappings take advantage of the 24-hour industry-wide withdrawal limit placed on ATM cards, holding victims for 24-48 hours to maximize withdrawal amounts. A common modus operandi for express kidnappings in Mexico City is to target passengers using libre taxis; two or three armed accomplices will enter the taxi a few minutes into the trip. The term “express kidnapping” also applies to the kidnapping of random victims held for brief periods where kidnappers demand only small ransom amounts. A typical scenario may last for several hours and settle for the peso-equivalent of a few hundred or thousand dollars. Few official U.S. government employees have suffered this type of crime, but many Mexican-national employees of the Mission either have been victims themselves or know a victim.

There appears to be an uptick in virtual kidnapping. These extortion telephone calls vary in style, but the methodology is often the same. In these cases, there is no actual kidnapped individual. The victim is actually a person who receives a telephone call. Callers say that they have kidnapped a loved one and often include a crying/pleading voice immediately after answering the call but before the kidnapper gets on the phone. Callers intend to confuse the victim and trick them into giving away important information. The voice will usually be crying and/or hysterical, making it difficult to identify and increasing the likelihood that the victim will believe it is their loved one. Criminals use fear and timing against victims. They plan their calls to coincide with times when it is difficult to contact the victim (e.g. when children are on their way to/from school). Alternatively, the callers will obtain the cell phones of two family members. They will call both victims at the same time and claim to have kidnapped the other. They use fear and the threat of violence to keep both victims on the line while they urge them to pay a ransom. Once the kidnappers have obtained as much money as they feel they can, they end the call. They may demand that the victims deliver the ransom in person, which can turn into a real kidnapping, or that they send the money electronically. Variations use callers claiming to be lawyers or police looking to get a family member out a bad situation. They pressure the target to pay them to waive charges or to bribe alleged corrupt officials to free their loved one and avoid a long, expensive judicial process.

Virtual kidnappers call Mexican and international numbers alike, and often use information obtained from social networking websites. Some originate from Mexican prisons. A variation affecting travelers at hotels is an extortion-by-deception scheme, wherein extortionists call a victim and convince them to isolate themselves from family/friends until they receive a ransom. The criminals coerce the victim (by threat of violence) to remain isolated and to provide phone numbers for the victim's family/loved ones. The criminals contact the victim's family and extract a ransom. Often, the callers make statements to suggest surveillance.

To reduce the likelihood of receiving a virtual kidnapping call, answer the phone with only a “hello” and make the other person ask for you by name and know the details of your family’s itinerary and contact information (e.g. landline and cell phone numbers). Never provide personal information to someone who calls or approaches you, and do not post personal information on social networking sites.

As a precaution, vary routes/times and be alert to possible surveillance, noting any individual who appears out of place. When hiring domestic help, vet them by identifying references. Ensure that they receive training not to volunteer information to strangers or to allow access to workers without prior authorization.

Review OSAC’s report, Kidnapping: The Basics.

Other Issues

Weapons laws in Mexico vary by state, but it is generally illegal for travelers to carry weapons of any kind including firearms, knives, daggers, brass knuckles, as well as ammunition (even used shells). Illegal firearms trafficking from the United States to Mexico is a major concern, and the Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against taking any firearm or ammunition into Mexico. If authorities catch you entering Mexico with firearms or ammunitions, you will likely face severe penalties, including prison time. Read the State Department’s webpage on customs and import restrictions for information on what you cannot take into or out of other countries.

Police Response

The emergency line in Mexico is 911. Generally, Mexican police must concentrate their limited resources on urban areas. State Police dedicate some resources to rural areas where there may be little or no municipal rule of law, but response times are usually high, and police prioritize cases of active threats or violent crime. Levels of professionalism vary greatly among police agencies. In major metropolitan areas, foreigners can expect support from police. Mexican security and police forces generally have been ineffective in maintaining security in border areas and other parts of Mexico. Consequently, citizens are often indifferent to police authority.

In some instances, U.S. citizens have become victims of harassment, mistreatment, or extortion by law enforcement and other officials. Authorities have cooperated in investigating some cases, but one must have the officer's name, badge number, and patrol car number to pursue a complaint effectively. Note this information if you have a problem with police or other officials. Be aware that offering a bribe to a public official to avoid a ticket or other penalty is a crime. Cooperate with the police if they stop or question you.

Police response to emergencies in Nogales is generally timely; however, in other cities in the consular district, the response time may not be as quick. A degree of narco-trafficking influence and complicity to criminal activity does affect police forces throughout Mexico. With the exclusion of several special units, Mexican law enforcement, especially at the local levels, is still developing professionally in comparison with U.S. standards. Many police are eager to serve, but do not have the training and equipment to perform their duties effectively. In addition, given that many local police grew up and live in the area with their families, they commonly acquiesce to threats of narco-trafficking violence. With low morale, poor pay, and narco-trafficking threats, local police typically have been more susceptible to corruption.

There has been a noticeable change in municipal police leadership and priorities throughout northern Sonora in since the MORENA party has taken office. Police leadership and its command have been eager to engage with their U.S. law enforcement counterparts and to obtain training and support to manage border security more effectively and contain and eliminate corruption.

The general perception is that most victims do not report crimes due to fear of reprisals by TCOs or the police, the belief that police are corrupt, or the feeling that nothing would come from such reports. The net result is that most crimes go unreported or uninvestigated. Reporting crime can be a bureaucratic, time-consuming process, and is widely perceived to have limited effectiveness. Federal and state security forces have limited capability to respond to violence in many parts of the state.

Reporting crimes can be a long, frustrating experience. Victims must make a complaint (denuncia) to police or the local branch of the State Prosecutor’s Office (Ministerio Publico). When making a denuncia, the burden of proof is on the individual to substantiate that a crime occurred. Even after filing a denuncia properly, the complainant must ratify it several days later. Satisfying this requirement is not practical for many visitors on short stays.

Police rarely investigate non-violent or minor property crimes. Crimes against foreigners are likely to get more attention from the authorities than crimes against Mexican citizens. Despite the substantial obstacles to reporting a crime, the U.S. Mission encourages all U.S. victims of crime to report the crime to the Ministerio Publico and the American Citizen Services office of the Embassy or nearest Consulate.

Not all uniformed police perform investigative functions or can take denuncias. In some cases, their roles are to patrol and prevent crimes. The Tourism Police specifically polices tourist areas and is commonly the only unit that speaks English. Its main purpose is to enhance the safety of tourist areas by deterring crime and responding to accidents. Tourist police cannot take denuncias, but can assist travelers in contacting authorities who can. Download the State Department’s Crime Victims Assistance brochure.

Police/Security Agencies

The organization of state and federal police agencies is similar to that in the U.S., but law enforcement capabilities are not comparable to U.S. standards. Police corruption and police involvement in criminal activity is common. Generally, police receive low wages, are vulnerable to corruption, and receive less training than their U.S. counterparts.

The Government of Mexico has recently dissolved the Federal Police (Policía Federal, PF) and stood up the National Guard (Guardia Nacional) whose mission, make-up, and mandate differ across Mexico’s northern border states, where immigration enforcement is often the Guard’s priority mission. The Guard is not self-sufficient and relies on the army (SEDENA) and navy (SEMAR) to conduct policing and security functions, and to combat organized criminal groups. The National Guard (Guardia Nacional) is composed of personnel from SEDENA, SEMAR, and Federal Police.

The General Procurement Office (Procuraduria General de la Republica, PGR) of the Mexican Attorney General is responsible for investigating and prosecuting federal crimes. The General Procurement Office (Procuraduria General de Justicia, PGJ) of each state/city oversees investigating and prosecuting state and local crimes.

The Interior Secretariat (Secretaría de Gobernación, SEGOB) oversees the Mexican Immigration Service (INAMI), whose officers have the right to detain suspected undocumented aliens and may deport them without formal deportation proceedings.

The Secretariat of Finance and Public Credit (Secretaría de Hacienda y Crédito Público) deploys customs officers (Aduana) to borders and international airports to interdict contraband.

The Bank of Mexico (Banco de México) operates its own security division charged with enforcing banking and monetary laws, including cases of counterfeiting, fraud, and money laundering.

State-level police (Policía Estatal Investigadora, PEI) in each of the country's 31 states and the Federal District maintain preventive and judicial police, and serve as the primary criminal investigative agency in a state. State police in border states have specialized groups that work with the FBI on kidnapping and other sensitive investigations. State police are under the direction of the state's governor. Each state contains numerous municipalities, many of which maintain a municipal police force.

Municipal Police (Policía Municipal) mainly patrol and conduct crime prevention. They are the primary responders when summoned through 911, to include traditional police calls like traffic violations and incidents in residential communities.

Transit Police (Policía de Tránsito) are responsible for overseeing and enforcing traffic safety compliance on roads and highways. Response to even minor car accidents can take long periods of time.

Medical Emergencies

The emergency line in Mexico is 911. Excellent health facilities are available in Mexico City and other major cities. Ambulance services are widely available, but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.

There are public and private medical systems in Mexico. Most visitors and relatively wealthy Mexicans choose to use private health care services. All major cities have private hospitals and private ambulance services, most of which offer adequate care in an emergency or if immediate travel to the U.S. is not possible. Mexican citizens receive free emergency and non-emergency medical care through the public system. In rural areas, public health facilities are often the only option, and the level of care can be substantially lower than that in major cities. The health care system does not operate in a manner comparable to U.S. health care standards. Travelers should look to establish a medical response plan. Find contact information for available medical services and available air ambulance services on the U.S. Embassy website.

In major cities, ambulance response time is typically 10-15 minutes, depending on the location. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi to a health provider. Foreigners residing or working in Mexico on a permanent basis should consider coverage with a private ambulance company for faster service.

Most private hospitals and emergency services require payment or adequate guarantee of payment before providing services. Very few hospitals in Mexico accept U.S. medical insurance. Instead, travelers will need to pay the hospital and then seek reimbursement from their insurance provider. Hospitals have refused to discharge patients until receiving payment. The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends purchasing international health insurance before traveling internationally. Review the State Department’s webpage on insurance overseas.

U.S. citizens have lodged numerous complaints against some private hospitals in resort areas to include exorbitant prices and inflexible collection measures. Obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care in these locations. Be aware that some resorts have exclusive agreements with medical providers and ambulance services, which may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention. Some hospitals in tourist centers use sliding scales, deciding on rates for services based on negotiation and on the patient’s perceived ability to pay. In some instances, providers have been known to determine the limits of a patient’s credit card or insurance, quickly reach that amount in services rendered, and subsequently discharge the patient or transfer them to a public hospital.

Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the U.S., are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common in certain parts of Mexico and may prove ineffective, mislabeled, or dangerous. Purchase medication in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments. For a list of controlled substances in Mexico, visit the COFEPRIS website and the Mexican Drug Schedule. U.S. citizens should carry a copy of their prescription or doctor’s letter, but it is still possible that they may be subject to arrest for arriving in Mexico with substances on these lists. Note that a medicine considered over the counter in the U.S. may be illegal in Mexico. For example, pseudoephedrine, the active ingredient in Sudafed, is a controlled substance in Mexico. Review OSAC’s report, Traveling with Medication.

The CDC offers additional information on vaccines and health guidance for Mexico.

In many areas in Mexico, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are safe, although many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless patrons specifically request bottled water. Ice for drinks might use tap water. Take precautions when drinking water or eating fresh fruits, vegetables, and salads. Review OSAC’s report, I’m Drinking What in My Water?

Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Mexico. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on your health. Many cities in Mexico, such as Mexico City, are at high altitude, which can lead to altitude illness. Review OSAC’s report, Traveling in High Altitude.

Review OSAC’s reports, The Healthy Way, Health 101: How to Prepare for Travel, and Fire Safety Abroad.

The following diseases are prevalent: Hepatitis; Typhoid Fever; Travelers’ Diarrhea; Dengue; Chikungunya; Zika; Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever; Parasitic Infections; and Chronic Respiratory Disease. The CDC offers information on vaccines and country-specific health guidance for Mexico.

OSAC Country Council Information

The Nogales Country Council is active and meets quarterly. Interested private-sector security managers should contact OSAC’s Latin America Team with any questions or to join.

U.S. Consulate Contact Information

Calle San Jose s/n, Fraccionamiento Los Alamos, Nogales, Sonora

Business Hours: 0800 to 1700, Monday thru Friday

Switchboard: +52-631-311-8150

Website: https://mx.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/nogales/

Other U.S. Diplomatic Posts In Mexico

Embassy Mexico City, Consulate Ciudad Juárez, Consulate Guadalajara, Consulate Hermosillo, Consulate Matamoros, Consulate Mérida, Consulate Monterrey, Consulate Nuevo Laredo, Consulate Tijuana