Foreign Office warning to UK tourists - 'you may be watched'

14 May 2024 , 12:32

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Beachgoers at Cancun in Mexico, where the government has issued warnings to UK tourists over violent crime rates (Image: AFP via Getty Images)

Tourists in a country popular with holidaying Brits have been urged to heed an important warning amidst rising violent crime.

Carjackings and robberies are on the rise in Mexico, and visitors to the country are being warned to take extra measures to keep themselves safe. While violence against tourists is comparatively rare, the country currently has one of the world's highest crime rates.

Mexico ranked 13 in the world list of homicide and violent crime rates, with high levels of cartel-related violence and violence against women and girls. Despite this, 66million tourists - including 500,000 Brits - visit the stunning country each year for its gorgeous beaches, lively nightlife and great cuisine.

Brits travelling to Mexico have been issued with measures on how to minimise the risk of falling victim to crime while on holiday. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) warns tourists to avoid straying from main roads if travelling by car, and to keep doors and windows locked.

Carjackings are common in Mexico, Birmingham Live reports, and being left stranded on the roads could leave the victim vulnerable to further crime. Advice on the FCDO portal says: "Stay away from isolated roads and use toll roads ('cuotas') whenever possible.

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"Keep car doors locked and windows closed, especially at traffic lights." It adds: "Violent car jackings and robberies happen along the Pacific Highway, if you suspect you're being followed or watched, drive to a police station or other safe place. Targets have included large camper vans or sports utility vehicles (SUVs).

"There have been incidents of criminals deliberately causing traffic accidents in order to make insurance claims or request cash from the other party. They are sometimes accompanied by threats of violence or intimidation. Contact the authorities for support where necessary."

"If you are involved in a hijacking, stay calm and surrender your valuables and your vehicle if asked. Resisting demands for your belongings can put you at significant risk of harm." It went on to say: "Armed robbery and vehicle theft has happened in El Fuerte. Avoid driving at night on the route between El Fuerte and Los Mochis."

Multiple parts of Mexico currently have "all but essential travel" warnings from the FCDO due to violence and conflict in the regions, including the states of Chihuahua, Guerrero and Zacatecas. Cities such as Tijuana and Tecate also fall under the amber warning.

It added: "We also advise against all but essential travel to the city of Tecate including the roads 2D and 2 that connect Tijuana and Tecate." The Foreign Office continues and warned: "No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you."

Susie Beever