PUERTO Vallarta is famous for its “dazzling beaches, quirky shops and lush palm-covered mountains” with Lonely Planet declaring it one of Mexico’s most enticing coastal destinations.
But while the resort town attracts millions of tourists each year, it is now making headlines for a grim naked mystery that’s shocking locals and baffling officials
A group of people have been abducted, stripped and tied naked to lampposts, with their buttocks red raw.
The victims also had the letter “R” marked on their heads — potentially referring to the Spanish word for “rat”, or thief.
Local police have confirmed the incidents and opened an investigation, and while they declined to say how many people were involved, local media have reported at least 10 cases.
There’s speculation it could be a bizarre twist in the gang wars plaguing the country, with victims refusing to talk to police or claiming they didn’t remember anything.
Only one victim has given away any information, stating he was taken from his home by people unknown to him, before being beaten on a farm.
Mexico has come under the spotlight this year for skyrocketing murder rates.
How to stay safe in Mexico
Advice from the Foreign Office is for Brits to take particular care to avoid being caught up in drug related violence between criminal groups, and be alert to the existence of street crime as well as more serious violent crime like robbery, assault and vehicle hijacking.
This is the FCO's main advice for Brits considering visiting Mexico:
A version of this article was originally published on News.com.au and has been reproduced with permission.
- Research your destination thoroughly and only travel during daylight hours when possible
- Monitor local media and inform trusted contacts of your travel plans
- When driving, avoid isolated roads and use toll roads whenever possible, keeping car doors locked and windows closed, especially at traffic lights
- If you suspect you’re being followed or watched, drive to a police station or other safe place
- Be particularly alert on public transport, at airports and in bus stations
- In Mexico City, use the better regulated ‘sitio’ taxis from authorised cab ranks or ask your hotel concierge to order you a taxi
- Women travelling on their own should be particularly alert when travelling on public transport- there have been incidents of rape on urban buses
- Don’t leave food and drinks unattended in bars and restaurants, as travellers have been robbed or assaulted after being drugged
- Dress down, avoid wearing expensive jewellery or watches and limit the amount of cash or credit/debit cards you carry with you
- Take care when withdrawing money from ATMs or exchanging money at Bureau de Change
- Be wary of people presenting themselves as police officers trying to fine or arrest you for no apparent reason
Source:
http://archive.is/v9rDS
https://www.thesun.co.uk/travel/7405130/puerto-vallarta-mexico-naked-crime-mystery/
if you're too stupid to be street smart in your own country you probably shouldn't be traveling.