Mexico 2020 Crime & Safety Report: Nuevo Laredo

This is an annual report produced in conjunction with the Regional Security Office at the U.S. Consulate in Nuevo Laredo. OSAC encourages travelers to use this report to gain baseline knowledge of security conditions in the northern portions of the states of Coahuila and Tamaulipas. 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 Coahuila (Level 3) due to crime. Do not travel to Tamaulipas (Level 4) due to crime and kidnapping. Review OSAC’s report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System.

The Nuevo Laredo Consular District includes the area of Tamaulipas west of Nueva Ciudad Guerrero and the following municipalities in the State of Coahuila: Ciudad Acuña, Allende, Guerrero, Hidalgo, Jimenez, Morelos, Nava, Piedras Negras, Villa Union, and Zaragoza. All other parts of Tamaulipas and Coahuila are the responsibility of the Consulates in Matamoros and Monterrey, respectively.

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 Nuevo Laredo as being a CRITICAL-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

There is serious threat of crime throughout Tamaulipas and Northern Coahuila. In Nuevo Laredo and surrounding parts of Tamaulipas, armed criminal groups target public and private passenger buses, often taking passengers hostage and demanding ransom payments. Non-violent crimes (e.g. financial scams, vehicle thefts, petty drug crimes) are also a serious concern. Local law enforcement has limited capability to respond to the violence that occurs throughout the region.

Tamaulipas reported homicides decreased by 22% in 2019 compared to 2018. However, the overall security environment did not improve substantially. The absence of municipal police; the inability to form a reliable, vetted state police force capable of maintaining law and order; and an inconsistent presence of federal forces continue to make Nuevo Laredo’s a volatile security environment.

In Nuevo Laredo, violent crime, such as murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, extortion, and sexual assault, is common. Gang activity, including gun battles, is widespread.

In 2019, firefights took place throughout the consular district. Gun battles generally occur after dark, but some have occurred in broad daylight, on public streets, and close to public venues. Recent examples include:

· On April 30, Coahuila State Police killed two TCOs after the TCOs attempted to abduct a man near the intersection of Lerdo Street and Ramos Arizpe Street, in Ciudad Acuña.

· On September 15, Coahuila State Police encountered two vehicles with armed TCOs near the area of KM 104 of Highway 2. A gun battle ensued, killing one officer.

· On September 25, a driver attempted to avoid a Coahuila police checkpoint along Highway 2, resulting in a vehicle pursuit. Police fired at the vehicle and the vehicle stopped. The vehicle contained undocumented immigrants attempting to evade detection, one of whom received injuries during the incident.

· On November 15, due to armed confrontations between local TCOs and state police, and reports of buses and tractor trailers burning in intersections in Nuevo Laredo, the U.S. Consulate issued a shelter in place order for Consulate personnel. With no new violent activity, the U.S. Consulate returned to normal operations on November 17.

· On November 30, TCO members attacked Villa Union City Hall with heavy gunfire. Villa Union is located approximately 45 miles from the international bridge connecting Piedras Negras, Coahuila with Eagle Pass, Texas. The attack lasted approximately one hour and resulted in the deaths of four state police officers and five TCO members.

· From December 31 to January 2, 2020, due to armed confrontations between TCOs and state police, reports of road spikes, vehicle pursuits, and blockades in Nuevo Laredo, the U.S. Consulate issued a shelter in place order for Consulate personnel. With no new violent activity, the U.S. Consulate returned to normal operations on January 6.

The situation in northeast Mexico remains fluid. Defer travel, and if you must travel, exercise extreme caution. Carry a working cell phone with coverage in Mexico and know where to go in case of emergency. Make use of hotel safes when available. Avoid wearing jewelry and carry a clutch purse or a concealed neck purse instead of a shoulder bag. Carry a wallet in the front trouser pocket or front jacket pocket. Do not advertise if you are from the United States. Criminals do not target due to nationality, but to perceived wealth or possession of valuables worth taking. Review OSAC’s report, All That You Should Leave Behind.

Stick to well known, well-populated routes, avoid traveling at night, and travel in groups when possible. Avoid known high crime areas (e.g. Zona de Tolerancia red light districts) and bars/clubs narco-traffickers may favor. Prepare to depart an establishment when you feel at risk. Vary routes and times to avoid any predictability and to minimize being a target of crime.

Vet potential domestic employees to the greatest extent possible. Train them not to volunteer information to strangers and not to allow access of workers without prior authorization.

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.

Theft of vehicle sound systems is a common crime. Install and use a car alarm.

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.

U.S. government employees living in or traveling to Nuevo Laredo, Piedras Negras, and Ciudad Acuña are subject to travel restrictions and a curfew from 2400-0600. All adult entertainment centers (“Boys Town”) and casinos are off-limits to U.S. government personnel.

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

Road safety is an area of particular concern throughout the region. Avoid unnecessary travel on Mexican Highway 2 between Reynosa and Nuevo Laredo, and from the Columbia International Bridge crossing west toward Piedras Negras, due to reported violence. Avoid travel outside of Piedras Negras and Ciudad Acuña due to the lack of law enforcement presence. Criminals have followed and harassed U.S. citizens traveling in their vehicles in these areas.

U.S. government employees at U.S. Consulate Nuevo Laredo and U.S. Consulate Matamoros may only travel within a limited area of their respective cities. U.S. government employees may not travel between cities in Tamaulipas or in Coahuila north of Highway 40 using interior Mexican highways and must observe a curfew between midnight and 0600. U.S. government employees may travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey, but only during daylight hours on Highway 85D, and only with prior Consulate authorization. With very few exceptions, U.S. government personnel may not travel overland into the interior of Mexico from the Texas border.

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.

Drivers on roads and highways may encounter government checkpoints, which often include a military staff. The government has 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.

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

U.S. government personnel may not use taxis or public transportation in Tamaulipas and northern Coahuila. Avoid city buses due to their crowded nature, lack of safety equipment, and vulnerability to robbery.

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.

In 2018 and 2019, Nuevo Laredo, Piedras Negras, and Acuña continued to receive Special Interest Aliens (SIAs) from, the Congo, Bangladesh, and other areas of the world, transiting through the region. There was no information that any of the SIAs had ties to terrorism.

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.

Large-scale civil unrest is uncommon in Nuevo Laredo and northern Coahuila. The few protests that have occurred have been peaceful and limited in size. Most protests are local in nature and do not pose a threat to bystanders. Even when protesting U.S. policies, demonstrators appear to be a careful in distinguishing between U.S. policies and U.S. citizens.

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

Heavy rains can lead to localized flooding and widespread power outages, but these normally occur within hours. High-clearance vehicles are helpful in these situations. Heavy precipitation can close roads and cause significant delays. Officials sometimes remove manhole covers to speed the evacuation of standing water. These actions often lack adequate markings and can lead to road hazards.

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

Industrial accidents are rare, owing to the isolation of the manufacturing areas from the city and the routing of hazardous materials (HAZMAT) to more distant bridge crossings. The city maintains civil emergency personnel, but their training and equipment are sub-standard in comparison to most major U.S. cities and lack the capability to respond to a major hazmat incident. The local fire department’s HAZMAT equipment and trained staff are far too small to address the amount of HAZMAT crossing into the Consular District. The nearest support teams are in Monterrey and Reynosa, three hours away.

Economic Concerns/Intellectual Property Theft

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.

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.

The security threat posed by TCO-related violence remains the most significant concern throughout Tamaulipas and Northern Coahuila. While the incidence of drug related crimes is lower in Northern Coahuila than Tamaulipas, the risk associated to the public due to the violence between TCOs and Mexican forces also exists throughout the consular district. Firefights between Mexican forces and TCOs have occurred over the past several months. Gun battles may occur at any time, as rival TCO gunmen engage in hit-and-run attacks and as military and police encounter TCO gunmen while on patrol. Over the past year, the Government of Mexico has significantly increased the number of troops in this region. Soldiers and police frequently patrol throughout the city; give these convoys a wide berth, as TCOs have engaged them without regard to civilian casualties. Remain cautious and identify potential safe havens if violence breaks out. Maintaining communication with travelers is critical in case of an emergency.

Corruption stemming from narco-trafficking remains high and affects service delivery levels from some state and local governments.

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. According to FBI statistics, Coahuila had 8 reported kidnappings of various types in 2019. Tamaulipas had 48 reported kidnappings of various types in 2019, with the highest rates per capita in Mexico. The actual incidence of kidnapping is likely much higher. In many of instances, after release, the victim reported to the Consulate that they were beaten, tortured, and threatened while held. The overwhelming majority of kidnappings and abductions relate directly or indirectly to cartel activity. Most abductees are found dead or never found.

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.

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 areas.

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.

Nuevo Laredo continues to have no Municipal Police force; state and federal police forces have assumed the duties of the local police, supported by both the Mexican Army (SEDENA) and the National Guard within the city. These groups all conduct regular patrols throughout Nuevo Laredo.

Municipal, state, and federal police provide law enforcement in Acuña and Piedras Negras, Coahuila, augmented by SEDENA and National Guard elements. Human rights NGOs and victims have alleged incidents in which Coahuila state police forces abused detainees in custody in Piedras Negras and surrounding areas.

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 Country Council in Nuevo Laredo meets twice or three times a year. Interested private-sector security managers should contact OSAC’s Latin America team with any questions or to join.

U.S. Consulate Contact Information

1901 Paseo Colon, Colonia Madero, Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas

American Citizen Services: +52-867-233-0557 from Mexico and 1-844-528-6611 from the United States.

After-hours emergency assistance: +52-55-5080-2000.

Website: https://mx.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/nuevo-laredo/

Other U.S. Diplomatic Posts In Mexico

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