Two of the four Americans that were kidnapped in Mexico last week have been found dead, according to Mexican officials.
Last week, four U.S. citizens were kidnapped by armed gunmen in Matamoros, Mexico, after they traveled by car for a medical procedure. The Americans were caught in crossfire between two rival Mexican cartels, who later opened fire on the vehicle. Wearing bullet-proof vests, the gunmen then captured the Americans. A video of the kidnapping went viral on Twitter yesterday.
The Attorney General for the Mexican state of Tamaulipas announced on social media today that two of the four Americans were found dead. One victim is reportedly alive but injured:
“Derived from the joint search actions, the four American citizens deprived of their liberty last Friday were found. Unfortunately, two dead. Investigation and intelligence work continue to capture those responsible. Details will be given later.”
Tamaulipas Attorney General Irving Barrios
U.S. officials believe that the Americans were mistakenly targeted by the cartel for being drug smugglers. Mexican officials continue to state that there will be an investigation to determine who was responsible and bring them to justice. Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has stated that at least one suspect has been arrested.
“We are closely following the assault and kidnapping of four U.S. citizens in Matamoros, Mexico. These sorts of attacks are unacceptable,”
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre
According to the White House, the federal government is closely working with Mexican authorities. The U.S. State Department has declared a “Level 4 – Do Not Travel” warning to Tamaulipas. This is the highest travel warning that the State Department issues and just so happens to be the same level warning given to Afghanistan.
Following the kidnapping and murder, Senator Lindsey Graham has suggested that Congress pass legislation categorizing Mexican drug cartels as a terrorist organization so that the federal government can use stronger force to secure the border. “If you continue to give safe haven to drug dealers, then you are an enemy of the United States,” said Senator Graham.
