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Reviewed: 12 August 2009, 10:00 NZDT
Still current at:
22 March 2010
There is some risk to your security in Mexico due to the high level of violent crime and we advise caution.
Violent crime in Mexico can include armed robbery, drug-related crime, kidnapping and sexual assault. There have been instances of visitors becoming victims of theft, extortion or sexual assault by persons who represent themselves as police officers. New Zealanders in Mexico should be security conscious at all times.
There is also an increasing incidence of “express kidnapping”, where individuals are forced to withdraw funds from automatic teller machines (ATMs) to secure their release, particularly in urban areas. Drink and food spiking also occurs in bars and restaurants. Petty crime such as pick-pocketing and bag snatching is prevalent at tourist destinations, airports, bus stations, and on the metro in Mexico City, especially after dark. It is recommended that you take particular care of your personal belongings in these areas. Care should also be taken in changing large sums of money, particularly at airports, given reports of surveillance by criminals leading to robberies.
There has been a significant increase in drug-related violence over the last two years. The worst affected areas are the northern states of Mexico bordering the US, including the cities of Ciudad Juarez, Nuevo Laredo, Tijuana, Mexicali, Matamoros, as well as the cities further south of Culiacan, Acapulco and Lazaro Cardenas. Foreigners are not usually targeted in such violence but could get caught up inadvertently and should remain vigilant. Mexican authorities have increased the number of police and military in affected areas.
On 15 September 2008, two grenades were thrown into crowds during the Independence Day celebrations in Morelia in the state of Michoacán. Eight people were killed and another 130 injured.
Demonstrations occur frequently in Mexico and are not usually violent. New Zealanders are advised, however, to avoid all protests, marches and public demonstrations and follow the advice of the local authorities. The Mexican Constitution prohibits political activity by foreigners and such action may result in detention and/or deportation. The city of Oaxaca has experienced civil unrest in recent years. There remains potential for further disturbances in Oaxaca city.
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Mexico should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders travelling to or residing in Mexico are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for North America
Other Countries' Travel Advisories
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Contact details are
Street address Jaime Balmes No 8, 4th Floor, Los Morales, Polanco, Mexico D.F. 11510
Telephone +52 55 5283 9460 Fax +52 55 5283 9480
Email kiwimexico@prodigy.net.mx
Website www.nzembassy.com/mexico
Office hours Mon – Thu 0830 -1400, 1500 -1730 hrs; Fri 0830 – 1400 hrs
