Urgent Travel Warning for Parts of Mexico
Increasing Violent Crime Levels in Mexico
As of early January, the U.S. State Department has issued a strict travel warning to parts of Mexico due to an escalated level of violent crimes in certain areas. The crimes mentioned include homicide, kidnapping, and robbery, prompting the governmental body to urge American citizens to reconsider their travel plans to Mexico.
It’s documented data has shown that violent crimes related to Mexican cartel activities have peaked once more at the beginning of the year, raising eyebrows internationally and probing the country’s security crisis. Consequently, this has led to reinforced warnings for potential travelers, with particular emphasis on specific regions.
Insight Into The Mexican Cartel Activities
The rise in violent crime has led to the arrest of a key figure in the Mexican cartel world. Guzman, known for his leadership in the Sinaloa drug cartel and his familial ties to notorious drug lord Joaquin El Chapo Guzman, was apprehended amidst the peak of violence.
The cartel’s impact is not limited to illegal activities traditionally associated with its practices but has now extended to infiltrating popular tourist resorts. These resorts are used as conduits for laundering money for the cartel’s operations, a factor that has seemingly escalated the risk of indulging in tourism in some regions of Mexico.
Resort Tourism Safety: A Story of Concern
An event reinforcing the warning was the tragic and unexplained death of an Orange County lawyer who was vacationing in Mexico with his family. Elliot Blair’s mysterious demise raised concerns about safety in Mexico’s most loved tourist resorts. Following a private autopsy commissioned by the family, it was later revealed that Blair had become a victim of the rampant violence sweeping across the country.
Do Not Travel Warning: Red Level 4
The U.S. State Department has issued its highest level of warning – Red Level 4, advising against travel to six Mexican states: Colima, Sinaloa, and Zacatecas. These areas, notorious for their elevated crime rates, pose an extensive risk to international visitors, thus the stern warning.
Alarmingly, popular tourist locations like Quinton De Rue and Baja, California, where resorts like Cabo and Cancun are located, have been placed under Yellow Level 2 warning levels. This stresses the need for increased caution for any visitors to these regions.
Guidelines for Essential Travel to Mexico
For those who choose or need to travel to Mexico despite the warnings, the State Department has outlined a few recommendations to ensure their safety. Visitors are advised to keep their family and friends back home informed about their travel plans. This could be crucial in case of emergencies.
Travellers are also advised to avoid driving alone and at night, given the high crime rates reported during these times. The need to exercise caution extends to visiting local hotspots such as bars, nightclubs, and casinos – places which are often targeted by criminals.
Lastly, the guidelines suggest that individuals should refrain from wearing expensive jewelry and watches. These items can draw unwanted attention and potentially put one in harm’s way.
Conclusion
While the beauty and cultural richness of Mexico continues to draw visitors, the escalating violence related to cartel activities and the resultant U.S. State Department warning has shed light on the severe safety risks that currently mar the renowned tourist paradise.