Monterrey, Mexico Experiencing Dramatic Increase in Human Trafficking

On June 18, 2013 Milenio reported that Monterrey is now second only to Cancún in terms of the Mexican cities experiencing the highest increase in human trafficking. Half of the trafficking victims are in transit and later moved to other cities. Those who are kept in the Monterrey come mostly from other states, especially in the south, a factor which facilitates trafficking as the victims are unfamiliar with the areas surrounding where they work.

According to a study by the Autonomous University of Nuevo Leon, each month between 300 and 400 arrive in Monterrey in conditions of trafficking. The rapid increase is due to the increase in tourism, which has rebounded since 2007. On Friday, Alejandra Vela Garza, director of Peaceful Alternatives, also stated that human trafficking has increased in the country as a result of the actions of organized crime, especially against children, who are being forced to commit crimes. Read Article