Extortion and kidnapping have reached alarming levels in Mexico, with criminal gangs increasingly targeting citizens across various sectors. The rise in these crimes has created a climate of fear, as victims often refrain from reporting incidents due to threats of violence from perpetrators. Recent statistics reveal that extortion cases have nearly doubled from 2016 to 2025, with only a small fraction reported to authorities.

Rising Extortion Rates
In the first four months of 2026 alone, nearly 3,600 extortion cases were recorded in Mexico, according to official figures. However, the actual number is believed to be much higher, as only 0.2% of such cases are reported due to fear of retaliation. Extortion has become one of Mexico's most pervasive crimes, costing the economy approximately $900 million annually, which amounts to 0.04% of the country's GDP.

Impact on Society
The ramifications of extortion are felt across all strata of society, affecting everyone from affluent business owners to small-scale vendors. Criminal gangs often demand "protection fees," threatening violence against those who refuse to comply. In some instances, individuals are subjected to "express kidnappings," where they are held briefly until their families pay a ransom. Emmanuel Moya, an anti-corruption expert, noted that gangs do not discriminate, making extortion a profitable and widespread criminal activity.

Specific Cases
The town of Huautla in Morelos state has recently gained national attention following reports of extortionists demanding monthly payments from residents. Bishop Ramón Castro of Cuernavaca highlighted the burden on families, particularly those with multiple children, who are forced to pay up to $10 per family member monthly, which represents a significant portion of their income. In Cuautla, known as the extortion capital of Mexico, street vendors face the added challenge of paying multiple gangs simultaneously for "protection."

Fear and Silence
The pervasive fear among the populace contributes to the silence surrounding extortion. Victims like Luis, who was abducted by police officers posing as criminals, often feel powerless to seek justice. After enduring threats and financial loss, victims are left with the chilling reminder that reporting the crime could lead to further violence. The culture of fear perpetuates the cycle of extortion, making it increasingly difficult for authorities to combat these criminal networks effectively.

Wrap-up
As extortion and kidnapping continue to escalate in Mexico, the government faces mounting pressure to address these issues. The lack of reporting due to fear of reprisals complicates efforts to combat crime, leaving many citizens vulnerable to the whims of organized criminal groups. Without significant intervention, the situation is likely to worsen, further entrenching a culture of fear and silence.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team