Mexico: Los Zetas and the Kidnapping Threat in Monterrey

The U.S. Consulate in Monterrey, Mexico, posted a Warden Message on Aug. 23 regarding an Aug. 20 gunbattle. Mexican authorities have denied reports that the incident emerged from a kidnapping attempt on a student. Whatever the cause of the battle, the risk of falling victim to extortion or kidnapping in the Monterrey region will increase as the drug trafficking organization Los Zetas finds itself under increased pressure from the Mexican government and its cartel rivals. The Zetas' tactical expertise and military background will present enormous challenges even to the most prepared individuals, teams and organizations anticipating potential kidnappings.