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yesterday

U.S. Consulate Warns of Dating-App Kidnappings in Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Nayarit

The State Department’s advisory follows a spike in ransom demands against Americans abducted in tourist destinations.

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Overview

  • U.S. Consulate in Guadalajara issued a June 2 security alert after confirming several Americans were kidnapped in Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Nayarit following meetings arranged through dating apps.
  • Officials say victims and their families faced large ransom demands before some hostages were released.
  • The State Department rates Jalisco as Level 3: Reconsider Travel and Nayarit as Level 2: Exercise Caution due to ongoing crime and kidnapping risks.
  • Travelers are urged to meet app matches in public, share their plans and meet-up locations with someone they trust, and call 911 if they feel threatened.
  • The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico provide an online list of emergency contacts for American citizens abroad.