Mexico: Nationwide increase in homicide rates /update 1

Event

Violent homicides rates continue to increase nationwide. According to National Public Security System (SNSP), at least 2530 homicide cases were opened in May, the highest ever recorded by the SNSP. At least 68 percent of recorded homicides were committed with a firearm. According to the federal government, the states with the highest murder rates as of mid-June are Colima, Baja California, Guerrero, Chihuahua, and Guanajuato.

Context

Fierce turf wars between competing and increasingly fragmented cartels are on the rise in much of the country and violence in parts of Mexico is spiraling out of control as cartels adopt increasingly militarized tactics. Business owners, journalists, politicians and candidates, and social leaders are also targeted, and bystanders can be caught up in the crossfire. 2017 was the most violent year on record based on violent crime indicators.

Advice

Individuals present in Mexico, notably the above areas, are advised to remain vigilant. Keep in mind that criminals may be armed; do not resist if confronted and do not look your attacker(s) directly in the eye.