Traveling or living in Central and South America should be, and usually is a wonderful experience. With its vast cultural and environmental resources Latin America offers something for every traveler and expatriate. Thousands of individuals especially Americans live permanently as expatriates throughout the region because they have been captivated by its beauty and its citizen's hospitality. Unfortunately throughout the Latin American a dangerous and deadly reality is can also make living in paradise a potential hazard if not careful, "express kidnappings".

Today it is estimated that 85% of all kidnappings throughout the world occur in Latin America. It is also not uncommon for corrupt law enforcement personnel to be criminally involved in kidnapping operations. It is estimated that a large percentage of all express kidnappings go un-reported.

An express kidnapping occurs when a victim is abducted and is forced to withdraw money out of ATM's. Kidnappers will also take possession of all valuables such as watches, credit cards, cash, cellular phones, and jewelry. It is also common that family members are also ordered to make ATM withdraws in order settle the abduction. Once the kidnapper is satisfied the victim is usually released.

Another technique that is utilized is where the kidnapper abducts a victim and negotiates with family members for a smaller amount of money. The goal is to earn a quick and easy payoff without protracted and complicated negotiations. Violence has been used in express kidnappings to impose a fast payoff. The victim is again usually released after payment.

Even though these are alarming facts there are steps that can be taken to protect yourself or a loved one from becoming a victim of an express kidnapping.

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About the Author Juan A. Garcia Jr. is the Owner and Chief Instructor of High Risk Security Services. HRSS specializes in providing personal security / anti-kidnapping training and consulting services for executives, expatriates, travelers, and organizations worldwide. www.atrisksecurity.com Mr. Garcia can be reached at highrisk@att.net

First Published: Sep 02, 2006