U.S. Conuslate in Matamoros issues alerts to U.S. citizens, carjackings

Posted on December 20, 2011 • Filed under: Crime, Mexico, TRAVEL, United States

U.S. Citizen Services
Emergency Message to U.S. Citizens About Carjackings in Matamoros

The U.S. Consulate General in Matamoros has learned that a series of carjackings appear to have been committed by the same suspects in the first two weeks of December in neighborhoods in the north of Matamoros. At least five of the carjacking victims were either US citizens or Legal Permanent Residents of the US. Suspected perpetrators were described as two armed males in their early 20s, each approximately 150 lbs. The pair have been seen driving different vehicles, including a green Chevrolet Cavalier, a green Chevrolet Tahoe and a black Ford Escort. The carjackers appear to be targeting vehicles with valid U.S. license plates that are stopped in traffic or parked at commercial establishments.

American citizens who find themselves confronted by armed assailants who demand property should know that it is usually best to comply with those demands. Additionally, U.S. Government official personnel assigned to the U.S. Consulate General in Matamoros have been advised to:

Travel in pairs whenever possible
Watch what is happening in mirrors – trouble can come from behind as fast as from the front
Pre-program emergency phone numbers in your phone and have your cell phone charged and with you at all times
Keep emergency medical supplies in the car
Be familiar with the areas in which one is driving and know as many different routes as possible
Know one’s vehicle and its capabilities; ensure it is in good working order and de-program any auto-unlocking features
Trust one’s instincts; most crime victims perceived something was wrong before they actually experienced it
Have a plan before leaving; know where safe havens (e.g., police stations or Mexican military outposts) are along intended routes

For any emergencies involving American citizens in the Matamoros consular district, please call or visit the American Citizens Services (ACS) Unit at the U.S. Consulate General on Avenida Primera 2002, Col. Jardin, Matamoros, Tamaulipas; telephone (011)(52)(868) 812-4402; http://matamoros.usconsulate.gov/. Read Announcement

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