Kidnappings, threats and ‘protection fees’: how can Mexico confront rise in deadly extortion?
Extortion has become a pervasive issue in Mexico, affecting various sectors of society. Reports indicate that the number of extortion cases has nearly doubled from 2016 to 2025, with only a small fraction being reported due to fear of reprisals. President Claudia Sheinbaum has pledged to address this growing crime, which significantly impacts the economy and daily life.
- ▪Extortion is one of Mexico's most prevalent and fastest-growing crimes, with nearly 3,600 cases reported in the first four months of 2026.
- ▪Only 0.2% of extortion cases are reported, making it the country's most 'silent' crime.
- ▪Extortion costs Mexico approximately $900 million annually, equivalent to 0.04% of its GDP.
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Members of the Mexican army and federal police at a crime scene after an organised crime shooting in Villa Juárez, Navolato, Sinaloa state. Photograph: Fernando Brito/AFP/Getty ImagesWith corrupt police on the streets and shopkeepers forced to pay gangs, president has vowed to tackle crime that now affects all parts of societyBy Oscar Lopez in Mexico City Wed 3 Jun 2026 07.00 EDTLast modified on Wed 3 Jun 2026 07.01 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleIt was about 11pm and Luis* was about to get into an Uber to go home when the police car pulled up. One of the officers produced two plastic bags with what looked like drugs: one contained some sort of powder, the other little crystals.
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