The US has warned American citizens to stay on guard when visiting the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, including its top destinations due to a recent increase in criminal activity.
“In light of recent security incidents and criminal activity in popular tourist destinations including Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum, U.S. citizens are reminded to exercise increased caution when traveling to the state of Quintana Roo,” reads the statement.
“Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state, including areas frequented by U.S. citizen visitors.”
Official data show that violent crimes targeting foreigners and those working in the hospitality sector have been on the rise over the last few months.
According to official reports, two Canadians were shot dead and another was injured during a confrontation among guests at Hotel Xcaret Mexico in Playa del Carmen, roughly 45 miles south of Cancun on Friday.
It’s worth noting that both victims had criminal records.
But not all of the victims have a questionable background. In early November, four American visitors were shot in an attack that left two suspected drug dealers dead.
On Tuesday, the manager of Mamitas Beach Club in Playa del Carmen lost his life with a coup de grace. Only a few hours earlier, another man was murdered with three gunshots to the head in the Villas del Sol subdivision of Playa del Carmen.
In another criminal act, also on Tuesday, human remains were found on a dirt road in Cancun.
Last Sunday, Quintana Roo’s Collective of missing people “Truth, Memory, and Justice” staged a protest outside the Ministry of the Interior to pressure the government to effectively investigative the cases of over 2,400 people who have gone missing in the state over the last five years.
Since banning travel to Mexico is unlikely, the US government has urged citizens to take a series of actions to better ensure their personal security.
These include keeping an eye on local news for updates, being mindful of their surroundings, reviewing personal security plans, calling 911 in an emergency, and contacting the US consulate or embassy if help is needed.