Private investigator Jay Armes III warns that the face of violence in Mexico may not always be what people expect, as cartels are increasingly using women and children to carry out violent acts. The recent murders of three surfers in Mexico highlight this trend, with the suspects not fitting the typical profile of cartel members. The suspects allegedly killed the surfers during a carjacking, highlighting the brutal nature of violence in the country.
Armes points out that cartels are employing women and children as young as 7 years old as assassins, with some infamous female assassins such as Claudia Ochoa Felix becoming well-known for their role in organized crime. The use of women and children in violent acts is becoming more common, as they are able to easily get close to targets without attracting attention. Research by the International Crisis Group supports Armes’ claims, noting that women are increasingly playing a role in criminal organizations in Mexico.
As summer vacation season approaches, travelers to popular Mexican resorts must be vigilant, as these areas are no longer considered off-limits to cartel violence. Tourists can become targets for cartels looking to expand their customer base, or they may become victims caught in the crossfire of warring criminal organizations. Armes advises travelers to trust their instincts and leave a situation if it feels unsafe, as it is better to err on the side of caution.
The use of women and children in violent acts is a disturbing trend in Mexico, with the surfers’ murders serving as a grim reminder of the brutality that can occur in the country. The suspects in the surfers’ deaths wanted the victims’ tires, highlighting the senseless violence that can occur. With cartels increasingly employing women and children as assassins, the face of organized crime is changing, and travelers must be aware of the risks.
Armes emphasizes the importance of being hypervigilant while traveling in Mexico, as tourists can easily become targets for cartels looking to expand their influence or eliminate rival factions. The use of women and children in violent acts makes it difficult to identify potential threats, as they are less likely to attract attention from security details. As summer vacations and honeymoon season begin, travelers to Mexican resorts must be cautious and alert to ensure their safety.
Overall, the trend of cartels using women and children in violent acts is a disturbing development in Mexico, with travelers advised to be cautious while visiting popular tourist destinations. The recent murders of three surfers highlight the brutal nature of violence in the country, and travelers must be aware of the risks associated with visiting Mexico. By being hypervigilant and trusting their instincts, travelers can reduce their chances of becoming victims of cartel violence while enjoying their vacations.
