May 24, 2013
News
U.S Consulate Issues New Travel Warning
By KGNS News
Recent acts of violence across the border have prompted the U.S Consulate to issue a warning to travelers.
Our Lauren Kendrick joins us with more.
Last Thursday there was a grenade explosion near the U.S Consulate in Nuevo Laredo.
They are asking citizens to use extreme precaution while visiting.
Since we are so close to Nuevo Laredo, we hit the streets to ask people what they think about this new warning.
Our neighboring border town used to be frequently traveled, but that all stopped once the violence took over the city.
One man said he hasn't been to Nuevo Laredo in over a decade.
"I haven't been across in twelve years. I'd like to change that, but it's up to how everything happens."
He goes on to say he doesn't think this warning will stop people from traveling across the border.
"I don't see anything really new with it. I mean they've been giving warning across for years and people have been going across."
Another person we spoke with said he will definitely pay attention to this warning even though he has no plans to travel into Mexico.
"I think it's pretty serious. I myself haven't been over there in quite some time. It's due to the gang violence and all that stuff over there. So I do take it serious."
According to the u-s consulate website, in the past week there have been at least eight murders and five arson attacks on local residents in Nuevo Laredo. They say it is expected to continue.
"I'm not from here, but I've heard stories about how it's bad. I think something needs to be done about it."
One woman we spoke to is from Mexico and also warns against travel.
"If you don't need to go across, don't go because it's really dangerous."
Also on the u-s consulate website are tips to help people stay safe if they must travel over there. Remain aware of your surroundings is one of the tips because danger to innocent bystanders is high. U.S citizens traveling or living in Mexico are being asked to enroll in the smart traveler program which gives you the latest security updates. You can find more information at https://step.state.gov/step/
