REYNOSA, Tamaulipas — A security alert has been issued for those traveling to the Mexican border town of Reynosa.
The town sits on the other side of the Rio Grande River from Hidalgo along the Texas-Mexico border. Recently, the U.S. Consulate in Matamoros issued a Level 4 - Do Not Travel advisory due to ongoing reports of kidnappings for ransom.
Officials say the kidnappings usually occur in the evenings along a bus route that leaves a terminal in Reynosa. The kidnappers have been targeting passengers with connections to the U.S., including citizens and residents.
According to the advisory, families have been forced to pay thousands of dollars in ransom for each victim, along with the victims having their belongings and documents stolen, and their bank accounts emptied.
Tips for staying safe in Reynosa
If you must travel through the area, officials say to avoid traveling by bus in and through Tamaulipas. They also say to notify family and friends of your safety and to remain aware of your surroundings.
Assistance is available through the U.S. Citizen Services Assistant form or by calling 911 in the event of an accident, fire or medical emergency. You can also call 55-8526-2561 from Mexico or 1-844-528-611 from the U.S.