Safe Global Serv rvices International Travelers Training - Mexico - - PowerPoint PPT Presentation

Safe Global Serv rvices

International Traveler’s Training - Mexico

OBJECTIVES

• State Department: Mexico’s Travel Policy
• Brief Overview of the Mexican Drug War (the Violence and the Cartels

behind it)

• Crime Statistics in Reynosa and Tamaulipas
• International Travel
• Global Kidnapping Assessment (Mitigating Risks)
• Recommendations for International Travelers (Safety Tips)
• Travel Awareness (Detecting Surveillance)
• Final Thoughts

State Department: Five Mexican States With Highest Warning “Do Not Travel”

• Five states in Mexico now have a “Do Not Travel" advisories, which puts them on the

same level as war-torn countries like Syria, Yemen, Afghanistan, Libya, and Somalia.

• The Mexican States are
• Tamaulipas
• Sinaloa
• Colima
• Michoacan
• Guerrero
• These states have been given a Level 4 Warning, the highest level of potential danger.
• Most of northern Mexico has a Level 3 Warnings, meaning “Reconsider Travel”.
• Mexico as a whole has a Level 2 Rating, meaning Americans should “Exercise Increased

Caution" because of concerns about crime.

MEXICO: TRAVEL ADVISORY LEVELS

Why Did the State Department Say Tamaulipas Was Unsafe for Travel?

• Known for: A border state located on Mexico’s Gulf coast; Tamaulipas has long

been defined by its proximity to the U.S. A large amount of Mexican trade travels through the state, and U.S. Citizens frequently cross into Matamoros and

• Reynosa. (Tamaulipas’ population is approximately 3.5 million and Reynosa’s

population is approximately 700,000 with an additional 400,000 floating population).

• Homicide rate: 20 deaths per 100,000 a 25% increase from the average from

2013 to 2016.

• What’s happening: Tamaulipas has been engulfed in violence mainly between

several factions of the Gulf Cartel and Cartel Del Noroeste (New Zetas) who are assisted by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. While the homicide rate there is not as high as in other five states, extortion and kidnappings are rampant.

• About one-fourth of all kidnappings in Mexico occur in Tamaulipas (most of these

kidnappings are drug related and the victims are from opposing groups).

GULF CARTEL

• Many of the once-dominant Organized Criminal Organizations such as the

Gulf Cartel, have fragmented into several, often competing, organizations.

• This fragmentation is driving most of the violence in Mexico.
• Reynosa is in the midst of a particularly brutal period as remnants of the

Gulf Cartel are now at war with each another over control of the plaza, the smuggling drug routes, and other criminal activity.

• The infighting has driven the heavy violence in Reynosa since 2017 and in
• ther parts of the state. The violence led to a record number of murders in

2017: 29,168, which surpassed the previous record of 27,213, set in 2011.

• If Matamoros regains control over the region, the violence could diminish

but it will likely result in a lot more bloodshed to eliminate all the

• pposition.

MEXICAN CARTELS AREAS OF DOMINANT INFLUENCE

JALISCO NEW GENERATION CARTEL

Staying Safe South of the Border

• Most of the violence in Tamaulipas involves Gulf Cartel

fighting each other and other cartels.

• There is a continuing risk of collateral damage because of the

military-grade weapons used by the cartels and the gun battles they have with each another and the military.

• The smaller groups that survived the cartel breakups are less

capable of transnational drug trafficking.

• This means that they are often forced to rely on more

localized crimes, such as kidnapping, extortion, cargo theft, carjacking and fuel theft, to raise operational funds.

Spikes/Ponchallantas

NATIONAL RANKINGS FOR TAMAULIPAS 2018-2019

• Homicide = 15
• Kidnapping = 1
• Extortion = 12
• Vehicle Theft = 20

Major Crimes Committed in Reynosa Compared to Tamaulipas for March of 2019:

The Gulf Cartel commits most of the crime in Reynosa. There is very little gang activity.

Category Reynosa Tamaulipas Level of Violence in Reynosa Level of Violence in Tamaulipas Homicide 26 62 High Medium Kidnapping 2 5 Low Low Extortion 2 9 Low Low Vehicle Theft 130 309 Medium Medium Street Drug Dealers 22 Low Low Home Burglaries 134 194 Medium Medium Business Burglaries 44 189 High High Aggravated Assaults 35 209 High Medium Sexual Assault 9 38 Medium Medium Domestic Violence 140 612 High High Femicide Low Low

Global Kidnapping Assessment (International Travel)

• Due to the perceived wealth and influence of U.S. private-sector employees, kidnapping

continues to pose a significant threat.

• Kidnap for Ransom (KFR) by criminal organizations is used to finance their operations.
• Traditional KFR has been somewhat supplemented by “Express Kidnapping” schemes that involve

brief abductions with smaller payouts (often through ATM withdrawals) in order to avoid prolonged negotiations.

• “Virtual Kidnappings,” in which actors use personal information to convince family members or

employers that an individual has been abducted and that his/her release is contingent upon the payment of a ransom (when in fact the individual may not actually be in custody).

• While it is impossible to prevent the threat of kidnapping entirely, certain practices have proven

successful in mitigating the risk; these include: monitoring advisories, remaining vigilant, minimizing displays of wealth, avoiding predictability, practicing travel and road safety, and protecting personal information.

• In the event that a kidnapping occurs, family/employers should contact the nearest embassy or

consulate and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Monitor Advisories

• U.S. embassies and consulates routinely post consular messages indicating

an increased risk of kidnapping and suggesting restrictions on travel to vulnerable areas. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories /mexico-travel-advisory.html

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive the latest

security updates and facilitate contact by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to in the event of an emergency. https://step.state.gov/

• Report your travel activities into Mexico to employer, co-workers, and

family.

United States Embassy in Mexico City

Address: Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtemoc, Ciudad de Mexico Telephones: From Mexico 01-555-080-2000 From the United States 011-52-555-080-2000 Website: https://mx.usembassy.gov/

Consulate in Matamoros

Address: Calle Primera #2002, Colonia Jardin, Matamoros, Tamaulipas Telephones: From Mexico: (868)-208-2000 From the U.S.: 011 52 (868) 208-2000 Hours of Operation: General Business Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. American Citizen Services: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to noon and 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Appointment is required. Email: MatamorosUSCitizens@state.gov or MatamorosACS@state.gov

Consulate in Nuevo Laredo

Address: Paseo Colon 1901, Colonia Madero, Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas For emergencies: From Mexico 01-800-681-9374 From the United States 1-844-528-6611 The U.S. Citizen Services Unit is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (except U.S. & Mexican Holidays). Business Hours (Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.). After-hours Line for U.S. Citizen Emergencies From Nuevo Laredo: 01-555-080-2000 From the United States: 011-52-555-080-2000 Email: nuevolaredo-acs@state.gov

Federal Bureau of Investigation

• Laredo, Texas

Address: 105 Shiloh Drive, Laredo, Texas, 78045 Telephone 956-723-4021

• McAllen, Texas

Address: 1200 N. McColl Road, McAllen, Texas, 78501 Telephone 956-984-6300

• Brownsville, Texas

Address: 2305 Hudson Blvd., Brownsville, Texas, 78526 Telephone 956-546-6922 After Hours:

• San Antonio Division (Headquarters for Laredo, McAllen, and Brownsville)

Address: 5740 University Heights Blvd., San Antonio, TX 78249 Telephone: 210- 225-6741

Remain Vigilant

• The basics of personal security is situational awareness.
• Situational awareness can help mitigate the risk of kidnapping.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially on the walk to and

from your vehicle and ATMs (don’t stop if you don't have to).

• If you detect that you are being watched or followed, do not panic.
• Walk or drive to the nearest safe location, such as a police station, hotel, or
• ther safe area (not always possible in Tamaulipas).
• It is good practice to be aware of these “safe haven” locations in advance.
• Have a Smart Phone (best way to find/track you and possibly your lifeline).
• Stay off the cell phone (be aware of your surroundings).
• Memorize a number you can call in case you lose your cell phone.

Minimize Displays of Wealth

• Kidnappers often strategically target their victims based on

their perceived financial value.

• Americans are assumed to be wealthy, regardless of their

actual economic standing.

• Avoiding wearing expensive jewelry or driving luxury vehicles

may reduce the likelihood of being targeted.

• Travel with the least amount of identifiable information to

include credit cards, address/phone books, laptops, etc.

• Keep car keys separate from house/office keys.

Avoid Predictability

• Kidnapping is a Crime of Opportunity
• Successful kidnapping schemes thrive on the ability to

target victims when they are most vulnerable.

• Varying times and routes, especially during non-

working hours, may reduce the ability of would-be abductors to anticipate movement and mitigate susceptibility to kidnapping.

Practice Vehicle and Road Safety

• A significant portion of kidnappings involves transportation.
• Avoid driving at night.
• When you park your vehicle, ensure the doors are locked properly.
• If you are hit from behind and must stop, remain inside the vehicle

with the doors locked until you have called for assistance.

• Check the mirrors to observe the situation.
• If you see something suspicious, like a pair or group of men

assembling, depart the scene (not always possible in Tamaulipas).

• Always keep the fuel tank at least half full.

Do Not Reveal Personal Information

• To reduce your exposure to a virtual kidnapping scheme, it is

recommended to answer the phone simply with “hello,” and make the other person ask for you by name (best not to answer unknown numbers).

• Know the details of your family’s travel and location (where they are

supposed to be, who they are supposed to be with, etc.), and contact information (land-line and cell phone numbers).

• Never provide personal information to someone who calls or

approaches you.

• Do not post personal information on social networking sites,

especially your travel plans.

What to do in the Event of a Carjacking (in Mexico)?

• Depending on the distance to your workplace, driving or not

driving depends on your criteria (have a plan beforehand).

• Never fight with the perpetrator(s) and give him what he

asks/wants (car, money, cell, etc.), unless your life or the life of your family depends on it.

• If it is possible to run on foot, leave the vehicle and ask for

help.

• It is never advisable to accompany the perpetrator(s), but

each situation is different.

What to do if Caught in a Fire Fight?

• DO NOT attempt to flee
• DO NOT attempt to take photos or record the fight
• DO lay down and take cover (on foot or in a vehicle)
• DO notify someone (if possible and without losing

focus on your safety)

Recommendations for International Travelers

• Attend travel training (specific to the area).
• Submit a Traveler's Profile.
• Submit a Trip Profile.
• GPS tracking device (check with your company if offered).
• Overnight stays should be at a vetted and approved hotel.
• US employees shouldn’t drive themselves in Mexico while on

business.

• Night travel should be avoided.
• Frequenting entertainment establishments should be avoided.

What is a Traveler's Profile? (A List of Basic and Critical Information Readily Available)

Basic Information: Critical Information:

• Full Name

Recent photo

• DOB

Finger prints

• Address (home/business)

Hair sample

• US Passport /Photo ID

General Consents:

• Cell phone number(s)

FBI involvement

• Emergency contact Info

Cell phone tracking

• Health Condition (medications/primary physicians)

What is a Trip Profile?

(Detailed Information of Your Destination)

• Used to research your destination (planning ahead)
• Submit two weeks prior
• Key Items:
• Purpose of trip
• Approving official
• All destinations including layovers
• Accommodations
• Detailed itineraries
• Company associates
• Business sponsor or client information (who are you visiting)
• Review State Department’s information regarding entry/exit into Mexico
• Stick to your travel plans

Requirements while Traveling in Mexico

• DO NOT carry weapons
• DO NOT drive a vehicle without waiver (check with your company)
• DO NOT offer anything of value to anyone (bribes)
• DO NOT get into a taxi if there is someone already in it
• DO NOT travel alone (preferably)
• DO check in constantly
• DO stop at checkpoints (good and bad)
• DO travel on toll roads “Autopistas” (No shortcuts)

Basic International Cell Phone Use

• Contacts +1 (area code) – number will allow you to call your

contacts in US. (Check with your cell phone carrier before you travel)

• Police can be reached by dialing 911, 060, 061
• Fire 068
• Ambulance 065
• English speakers may not be available

Taxi Cabs in Mexico

(Consult with hotel which cabs are safe and the customary fares)

Travel Awareness

Detecting Surveillance

• Be alert and aware of your surroundings
• Study details, especially at “choke points”
• Know what is normal/not normal
• Persons/vehicles with no “purpose” for being there
• Repeated sightings of same person or vehicle at different

locations

• Unusual or abnormal behavior
• Vehicles or people that arrive or depart before/after you
• Vehicles or people which maintain your same speed
• Trust your instincts

If You Detect Surveillance…

• Do not panic
• Activate your GPS
• Do not let on that you know you’re being watched
• Do not confront
• Get to a public place if you’re not
• Call your point of contact (supervisor, travel companion, or

family) immediately

• Discreetly observe the person and/or vehicle to obtain a

description and pass it on

Defeating Surveillance

(Make Yourself an Undesirable Target)

• Keep purse or briefcase close to your body
• Make contact with a police officer
• Approach a group of people (tourists, workers)
• Cross the street or change direction if approached by

suspicious-looking person on foot

• If in a car, move in the opposite direction and drive

to a safe place

• Go inside a hotel or restaurant

FINAL THOUGHTS: SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS

• Kidnappings: Provide employees with anti-kidnapping and hostage

survival training

• Always report your travel activities
• Stay OFF the cell and BE AWARE of your surroundings (have an extra

cell if possible)

• Memorize a number you can call in case you lose cell
• Travel with the least amount of identifiable information to include

credit cards, address/phone books, laptops, etc

• Keep car keys separate from house/office keys

Safe Global Services

• Install a GPS on the vehicle of every staff

member travelling to Mexico. GPS monitoring can be conducted at the SGS’ command center in McAllen to ensure that security protocols are being followed and to alert staff of any emergency situation.

• If equipped, activate panic button at first sign of

trouble to initiate emergency protocol. SGS can assist with this service in addition to providing SafeAlerts, transportation and/or escorting your employees.

• In the event of an emergency, SGS has law

enforcement and emergency services assets throughout Mexico who will immediately respond to the scene and provide assistance in defusing any threats, rescue any injured, and extract victims (especially after a carjacking).

• In the event of a kidnapping, SGS can assist the

family and U.S. law enforcement by contacting

• ur liaison contacts and sources in Mexico.

QUESTIONS

956-668-SAFE (7233) JORGE L. CISNEROS 956-232-7008 jorgecisneros@safetrack.us JORGE VELASCO 956-451-8008 jorgevelasco@safetrack.us RICK RIVERA 956-371-0763 rickrivera@safetrack.us