The U.S. Consulate has issued a security alert for Reynosa, Rio Bravo, Valle Hermoso, and San Fernando in Tamaulipas, Mexico, due to increasing crime and kidnapping threats. The consulate reports frequent gun battles occurring late at night and early in the morning around Reynosa.
The state of Tamaulipas has also warned against interacting with improvised explosive devices (IEDs) found near Reynosa, Rio Bravo, Valle Hermoso, and San Fernando. These IEDs are reportedly being manufactured and used by criminal organizations in the region. On January 23, an IED destroyed a Government of Mexico official vehicle in Rio Bravo, injuring its occupant.
In response to these developments, U.S. government employees have been advised to avoid traveling outside daylight hours in and around Reynosa and Rio Bravo and to steer clear of dirt roads throughout Tamaulipas. The State Department’s Travel Advisory for Tamaulipas remains at Level 4 – Do Not Travel Due to Crime and Kidnapping.
Travelers are advised to stay on paved roads, avoid unknown objects near roads, plan travel during daylight hours, monitor local media for updates, remain aware of their surroundings, and notify friends and family about their safety.
For assistance or further information, contact details for the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico have been provided: From Mexico: 55 8526 2561; From the United States: +1-844-528-6611; Department of State – Consular Affairs: +1-888-407-4747 or +1-201-501-4444.
Further resources include links to Mexico International Travel Information, U.S. Citizens in Mexico WhatsApp Channel, U.S. Passports services, Traveler’s Checklist as well as social media channels like Facebook and X.