Global Kidnap Bulletin | August 2020

In this edition of the Global Kidnap Bulletin, we begin with a look at how criminal groups in Latin America have adapted to the change in conditions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, explore the increasing frequency of virtual kidnapping incidents at Mexican hotels, assess Russia’s use of wrongful detention as a means for achieving foreign policy objectives, and discuss the worsening crime rates in Lebanon.

Continuity planning: Outlook for KRE as cartels adapt to Covid-19

Limits on movement and the slow-down of economic activities have forced criminal groups in Latin America to modify their operations. However, as restrictions begin to be lifted in many countries, old methods will re-emerge. In this article, we look at the impact the pandemic has had on cartel activities, and what developments we may see as measures intended to curb the spread of COVID-19 are eased. Read the article

Staying in: Virtual kidnappings in Mexican hotels

Hotel guests are becoming increasingly lucrative targets for virtual kidnapping scams in Mexico. In this article we look at how virtual kidnapping works and what the recent data from Mexico tells us, and provide some practical guidance on how to avoid becoming a victim. Read the article

Spy or pawn: Russia’s use of wrongful detention as a foreign policy tool

The recent sentencing in Russia of an American citizen to a 16-year prison term raised questions about the legal process, and the extent to which Russia is using the imprisonment of foreign citizens as leverage for gaining concessions from other states. We discuss how wrongful detention fits in with Russia’s political system, and point to some of the factors likely to make a visitor to the country an attractive target. Read the article

Rising crime in Lebanon as economic woes worsen

The data suggests there has been a notable uptick in a range of crimes in Lebanon in early 2020. The country is grappling with a serious political and socio-economic crisis, made worse by the recent government resignation in response to the devastating explosion in Beirut port. With Covid-19 pandemic continuing and deteriorating economic conditions, crime levels are likely to increase further. In this article, we discuss some of the challenges ahead of the new Lebanese government, and provide an assessment of the likely trajectory of the country’s criminal environment. Read the article