Authorities say the families have been forced to pay thousands of dollars in ransom.
REYNOSA, Tamaulipas — A safety alert has been issued for people traveling to the Mexican border town of Reynosa.
The town is located across the Rio Grande from Hidalgo on the Texas-Mexico border, and the U.S. Consulate in Matamoros recently issued a Level 4 travel advisory after a spate of reported kidnappings for ransom.
Authorities say the kidnappings often occur in the evening along bus routes departing from the Reynosa terminal, and kidnappers target passengers with ties to the United States, including U.S. citizens and residents.
According to the advisory, victims’ families were forced to pay ransoms of thousands of dollars per victim, their belongings and documents were stolen, and their bank accounts were emptied.
Tips for staying safe in Reynosa
Authorities urge people who must travel in the region to avoid bus trips in and through Tamaulipas, to inform family and friends of their safety, and to be aware of their surroundings.
Assistance is available through the U.S. Citizen Service Assistant In the event of an accident, fire, or medical emergency, please fill out a form or call 911. Call 55-8526-2561 in Mexico or 1-844-528-611 in the United States.
