Mexico sees rise in foreigner kidnappings

(Vatican Radio) There has been a surge in the kidnapping of foreigners in Mexico, according to a Mexican Government report.

Listen to James Blears’ report:

A report by Mexico's National Immigration Institute, says that in 2012, 72 kidnappings of foreign nationals were reported.  A year later it was 75.  But last year it had surged to 697.  The kidnapping of 130 US Citizens was reported to US Consulates and the US Embassy, between January and November 2014.

The most dangerous Mexican State for kidnapping is Tamaulipas, which borders on to Texas. Most foreigners abducted were held for hours or days, in what's known as Express Kidnapping.

Until recently, Mexican organized crime has avoided kidnapping foreigners, for fear of drawing more focused and unwelcome law and order attention,  thus heat.  But Experts say they are becoming more opportunistic.  Experts also say that 97 percent of kidnappings in Mexico  go unpunished. Many are never reported by families, who are untrusting of authorities.