British nationals heading to Mexico have been warned about vehicle crime, with the government issuing advice on how to stay safe.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) urges travelers visiting popular tourist attractions to “stay off isolated roads and use toll roads ('quota') where possible. Lock your car doors and close your windows, especially at traffic lights.
“Violent carjackings and robberies are occurring along the Pacific Highway. If you believe you are being followed or watched, please drive to a police station or other safe location. This also includes large campers and sport utility vehicles (SUVs).
“There have been incidents where criminals intentionally cause traffic accidents in order to make insurance claims or demand cash from the other party. Sometimes this involves violence and intimidation. If necessary, contact the authorities. Please contact us and ask for assistance.”
Mexico is a popular tourist destination
Getty Images
“If you are involved in a hijacking, remain calm and hand over your valuables or vehicle when asked. Resisting requests for your belongings may put you at serious risk of harm.”
The FCDO has detailed which areas were affected by vehicle hijackings. Britons were warned: “Armed robberies and vehicle thefts are occurring in El Fuerte. Avoid driving at night on the route between El Fuerte and Los Mochis.”
The FCDO is responsible for road 32, which runs between the cities of Los Mochis and Mazatlan, El Fuerte and Los Mochis, the 15D federal toll road that crisscrosses the state, and the Copper Road, which connects Los Mochis/El Fuerte with the towns immediately above this route. canyon railway route.
Vehicles have also been “targeted in armed attacks” in Baja California (which includes Tijuana).
The FCDO provides non-essential transportation to the city of Tijuana, Baja California, except for airside transit via Tijuana Airport, cross-border express service from the airport zone, and traffic through Tijuana to cross the border via Federal Toll Road 1D. It is advised against non-essential travel. And via Lapida.
Britons are advised to “avoid non-essential travel to the city of Tecate, including roads 2D and 2, which connect Tijuana and Tecate.”
British nationals visiting Mexico should refer to the latest guidance provided by the FCDO, including information on specific locations to avoid all but essential travel.
The FCDO warned: “Safe travel cannot be guaranteed. Please read all the advice in this guide and the specific travel advice that applies to you.”
The Government has specific guidance for women travellers, disabled travellers, and LGBT+ travellers.
The British were advised: 'Follow and connect with FCDO travel on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. You can also sign up to receive email notifications when this advice is updated.
Latest development status
Vehicle targeted for armed attack in Baja California
Getty Images
“If you choose to travel, research your destination and purchase appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities, and emergency costs.”
Britons traveling to Mexico have also been advised of some important health information. Vacationers should be advised: “Before traveling, check whether necessary medical care is available at your destination and whether you have adequate travel insurance to cover on-site treatment and unexpected medical evacuation. This is especially important if you have a medical condition or are pregnant.
In the event of a medical emergency, Brits should call 911 to request an ambulance. They were advised: “In Mexico City, emergency buttons on surveillance cameras all over the city connect you immediately to emergency services.
“If you have been referred to a medical facility for treatment, please contact your insurance company or medical assistance provider immediately.
“Outside of state capitals and metropolitan areas, medical and emergency services may be limited, including immediate response, ambulances, basic medical equipment, and expertise.”
