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Hijacking

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roundtuit - 4-14-2008 at 08:29 AM

STRONG RUMOR 9:30 am
About one hour ago a plane was hijacked from the serinadad air strip. Two banditos made some pepole get off the plane and took it. flying west . As they left they set the car they came in on fire.

tripledigitken - 4-14-2008 at 08:57 AM

For many years there was a military presence on the east side of the runway. The last couple of visits they have been gone.

Maybe bringing them back would be a deterrant to these activities?

This if true, is really bad news.

So sorry to the owners of the plane.

Ken

bajaboolie - 4-14-2008 at 09:09 AM

Terrible news. Did they take everyone off the plane or was the pilot still on board?

wilderone - 4-14-2008 at 09:12 AM

I'm curious - these banditos are pilots? Where do they learn to fly? They can hijack any two-seater and be able to fly it? What's the general outcome of these stolen planes? Are they eventually found in rural airstrips and reported to the owners? Or stripped?

Cap - 4-14-2008 at 10:12 AM

This is very sad news indeed. There are a lot of very good and informally trained pilots in Mexico. Many former crop dusters etc. 206's (single engine 4-6 seat Cessna) have long been a target down there but things have gotten so bad I wouldn't be surprised to see other types of planes taken.
I hope everyone is alright and they deal with the culprits appropriately.
If there is anything I can do ride home etc) please let me know.
:no:

-cap

Cap - 4-14-2008 at 10:14 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by wilderone
I'm curious - these banditos are pilots? Where do they learn to fly? They can hijack any two-seater and be able to fly it? What's the general outcome of these stolen planes? Are they eventually found in rural airstrips and reported to the owners? Or stripped?

Mostly these planes are loaded with drugs and crashed into the desert north of the us border. Occaisionaly an owner will get one back but not likely.

capt. mike - 4-14-2008 at 10:41 AM

it was Pat's 206.
more on the BBP now.
what a bunch of caca.
this is bad pub for Don now.
look for the garrison to return to El Gallito! does that mean i have to start checking in?? ;^)

LancairDriver - 4-14-2008 at 12:18 PM

Looks like I left Mulege just in time.(Yesterday- Sun 13th) Latest report is that there were 3 adults and 2 children on board the Cessna 206. They had taxied back on the runway at the Serenidad ready for takeoff about 8am and a pickup blocked their way. They were ordered off the aircraft and six bandits boarded and took off to the west after torching the pickup.This is the latest from the Baja Bush Pilots.
Numerous stolen aircraft have been recovered on the mainland and are awaiting processing "for evidence" before supposed return to their owners, so there evidently is some effort being made. Sad situation all around.

mulegemichael - 4-14-2008 at 05:14 PM

Yeah...sad...especially since they're our next door neighbors...5 guys with black hoods over their heads...broke the window out of the plane, said "this is a good day to die" as they pointed the gun at the pilots head and ushered everyone off the plane....they climbed aboard as they torched their vehicle on the runway...no evidence left behind...seems pretty professional to me...makes me a little uneasy here in paradise...bring back the military!!!!

David K - 4-14-2008 at 05:21 PM

This is very sad indeed... for the people directly harmed and for Don, who has to constantly battle one issue or another to maintain a business at beautiful Serenidad! Baja California Sur is not immune from drug crime against innocent tourists...

Crusoe - 4-14-2008 at 05:51 PM

This is really ashame....Especially for the kids who were traveling in the plane. Lets all be thankfull that no one was kidnaped or injured. It could of been much worse. Really to bad for Don. ++C++

Lauriboats - 4-14-2008 at 06:16 PM

This makes me sick.

Diver - 4-14-2008 at 06:28 PM

Curious if there is a remote kill-switch available for airplanes ?
It would have been something to let these guys start their takeoff run and have the engine killed by remote. Maybe even better if they were a few thousand feet in the air !?
.

mjf - 4-14-2008 at 06:33 PM

that's a brilliant idea????

Stick with tracking equipment which many of these planes have (or should).

This is not good for Don or Serenedad.

FAA won't allow it

thebajarunner - 4-14-2008 at 06:49 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Diver
Curious if there is a remote kill-switch available for airplanes ?
It would have been something to let these guys start their takeoff run and have the engine killed by remote. Maybe even better if they were a few thousand feet in the air !?
.

Sort of like the airline pilot last week that let off a round in the c-ckpit. Leads to more problems than it solves.

I flew my 210 into Serinadad a couple times 25 years ago, felt very comfortable doing so, can assure you that it would not cross my mind to do so today..

mjf - 4-14-2008 at 06:57 PM

wow, you're a brave soul. 6 armed banditos hijacking a plane at Mulege with a family inside and you would have no issues returning? I'll be keeping my bird north of the border for the time being....

Ken Bondy - 4-14-2008 at 07:25 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by thebajarunner

I flew my 210 into Serinadad a couple times 25 years ago, felt very comfortable doing so, can assure you that it would not cross my mind to do so today..

Does that mean you would go back or you would not go back?

++Ken++

longlegsinlapaz - 4-14-2008 at 07:30 PM

mjf....I think you mis-read thebajarunner's comment. I read it to mean it would not cross his mind to do so (land there) today.

LancairDriver - 4-14-2008 at 07:30 PM

Looks to me that he said he would not consider going back under circumstances today.

mjf - 4-14-2008 at 08:45 PM

definite mis-read on my part, my sincere apologies for wasting everyone's time.

For those interested in staying appraised of the situation, there is a discussion group on BBP (Baja Bush pilots).

This hits way too close to home....

djh - 4-14-2008 at 08:50 PM

http://www.bajabushpilots.com/yabbse/index.php?board=1;actio... for those of you not familiar with navigating the BBP site.

It may be wishful thinking, but... I hope these thugs get what they deserve and that Pat gets his plane back. I read a post that said the plane was headed towards Loreto...

Really irks me !

Quote:

Originally posted by capt. mike
it was Pat's 206.
more on the BBP now.
what a bunch of caca.
this is bad pub for Don now.
look for the garrison to return to El Gallito! does that mean i have to start checking in?? ;^)

Bob H - 4-14-2008 at 08:55 PM

More terrible news! For the time being, my wife and I are avoiding any travel to Baja. They have to get it together. The charm is quickly fading if you ask me.
Bob H

mjf - 4-14-2008 at 09:07 PM

As much as I HATE to admit it, I would have to agree. I'm going down next week (via car) and really not looking forward to it. Considering canceling the plans...

susanna - 4-14-2008 at 09:46 PM

These thugs have no respect for no one, can you imagine being a child and go thru this. All this stuff was one of the reasons i decided not to live in Baja and now with this happening when i thought we could fly to vacation. I feel sorry for the honest hard working locals that depend on the turistas to make a living.

Hook - 4-14-2008 at 09:53 PM

As big a critic as I was of the situation at the end of 2007, I really feel things have improved substantially since the troops were deployed. We're just not hearing of much, especially involving cars. I'd go, and just avoid driving at night especially above San Quintin.

Planes are a different story. Thefts, while not yet common, are not unheard of.

No way I would fly my plane to Baja

thebajarunner - 4-14-2008 at 09:58 PM

Sorry for seeming to be obtuse in my comment.

I would not dream of flying into a private strip in Baja today.
Too many opportunities, as described above, for bad guys to borrow my aircraft.

I can remember flying down for a 1000 to San Felipe, left the plane there and drove back to Ensenada, actually starting the race back to San Felipe, then hopping in the bird and going down to Punta Prieta, pitting for the guys, then sleeping under the wing, up at dawn and in La Paz for the finish.

Those days are fond memories, but no chance of doing it again!!

Cap - 4-14-2008 at 11:06 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by thebajarunner
Sorry for seeming to be obtuse in my comment.

I would not dream of flying into a private strip in Baja today.
Too many opportunities, as described above, for bad guys to borrow my aircraft.

I can remember flying down for a 1000 to San Felipe, left the plane there and drove back to Ensenada, actually starting the race back to San Felipe, then hopping in the bird and going down to Punta Prieta, pitting for the guys, then sleeping under the wing, up at dawn and in La Paz for the finish.

Those days are fond memories, but no chance of doing it again!!

I would offer a different course of action. Respectfully , I submit that everyone considering flying( or driving or whatever) to Mulege to arrive in mass to show our support for the locals and dispaly our resolve to not allow people of low carachter to affect us.

Admittedly I have had 4 margaritas (check the spelling on this post) I may be less confrontational in the morning...
-salut

capt. mike - 4-15-2008 at 05:07 AM

good show Cap!!

yes!! baja flying is SAFE. we can't let them beat us.
serenidad ROCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yep, the flying is safe, but....

thebajarunner - 4-15-2008 at 08:15 AM

it is the parking that scares me....

a lighter side of the story

thebajarunner - 4-15-2008 at 08:21 AM

The night that I slept under the wing at Punta Prieta....
it was November (the 1000, remember?) and so it got dark real early, we pitted our team, the support truck gassed me up out of cans of avgas we had sent along for that purpose, away they all went and I rolled out my sleeping bag.
In those days there was a fairly large army camp just across the highway from the airstrip.
I had just settled in with the mosquitos when I heard a noise, sat up in my sleeping bag and here were four young soldiers with rifles standing next to my sleeping bag.
Now if that doesn't stop your heart for a second......
Anyway, I think I startled them as much as they startled me, we had a very short conversation and they departed.
When I awoke at daybreak to continue my flight to La Paz one of the young guys was sitting on a post, about 100 feet away- apparently they left him there all night, for what reason I will never know.
I did my pre-flight, climbed aboard, "Clear!!" and was outta there.
He did give a little wave as I rotated off the strip.

Only in Baja!!!

Natalie Ann - 4-15-2008 at 08:31 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Cap

I would offer a different course of action. Respectfully , I submit that everyone considering flying( or driving or whatever) to Mulege to arrive in mass to show our support for the locals and dispaly our resolve to not allow people of low carachter to affect us.

Admittedly I have had 4 margaritas (check the spelling on this post) I may be less confrontational in the morning...
-salut

Margaritas or no margaritas I'm ready for the fly-in whenever you are, amigo.

Nena

roundtuit - 4-15-2008 at 08:36 AM

One out of how many planes that land and take off from there during a year. And how many are parked there for weeks at a time. Don't blame Don !!
Bring back the military.
:fire:

wilderone - 4-15-2008 at 09:49 AM

There must be some security measures that can be organized. A town like Mulege at least has something to work with - not like some air strip out in the middle of nowhere. Alarm buttons at the Serinidad office, that alerts the police department? Other alarms like air raid sirens which alert a designated group to come running. Spike strips that can be mobilized immediately by a volunteer security force? Or some empty barrels that can be rolled into the take-off area in a matter of seconds by a private security guards? Some chains that get padlocked to the tail anchored in cement? ID required to be worn in plain view by everyone within the airport area? A security guard kiosk checking IDs, paid for by any number of Mexican and US air clubs and police and tourist entities. I'd think a salary of $12,000/year would be sufficient - that's nothing. Smoke bombs available? The "Club" for airplanes?

Cap - 4-15-2008 at 10:24 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by wilderone
There must be some security measures that can be organized. A town like Mulege at least has something to work with - not like some air strip out in the middle of nowhere. Alarm buttons at the Serinidad office, that alerts the police department? Other alarms like air raid sirens which alert a designated group to come running. Spike strips that can be mobilized immediately by a volunteer security force? Or some empty barrels that can be rolled into the take-off area in a matter of seconds by a private security guards? Some chains that get padlocked to the tail anchored in cement? ID required to be worn in plain view by everyone within the airport area? A security guard kiosk checking IDs, paid for by any number of Mexican and US air clubs and police and tourist entities. I'd think a salary of $12,000/year would be sufficient - that's nothing. Smoke bombs available? The "Club" for airplanes?

The Military presence returning is the answer IMHO. I wouldn't want to be the fellow rolling out counter theft measures, infront of a plane full of armed narcotrafficantes.
But I do like the enthusiasm, and creative thought. :light:

I have a video of a friend of mine taking off from Mulege as a guy on a bicycle leisurley crosses the runway.. ID's might not work

Hook - 4-15-2008 at 10:27 AM

Quote:

You couldn't pay a delegacion municipal guy enough to have him put his head on the line against cartel members on crank with semi or automatic weapons. Not physically or financially possible. They have almost no training in incidents like this. It wouldn't have stopped this incident.

What is needed is an immediate means of notification to an entity with means of tracking the plane in the air and then deploying forces on the ground at that point.

Maybe the "clear and present danger" clause to get the US involved? I dont know if Mexico has the resources. But a helicopter with .50 caliber machine guns might get them thinking twice about hijackings.

Beachgirl - 4-15-2008 at 11:54 AM

Here's a happy thought in the middle of the obviously terrifying news....the six bad guys aren't here anymore. Yeah, I know all the other stuff...and I know they are causing trouble somewhere else, and yes, I hope someone shoots them (can I say that?), but still...they aren't here. Selfishly it is just nice to think of them NOT being in Mulege. I am not trying to make light of this situation, but I think I would be willing to pay bad guys to leave town...somewhat like the old time sheriffs would escort them to the edge of town with a "Don't come back" comment...of course I don't mean provide them with airplanes...maybe a hundred bucks and a bus ticket! Just wondering....how about some positive news, like how many planes come and go with no problems at all? Where are Arnold, Chuck and Sylvester when you need them?

joel - 4-15-2008 at 01:56 PM

Has anyone any idea how to request the military return? Sure it would be nice if they returned, but it seems like it would be difficult to reach a decision-maker. Do they even care about hijackings, other than the actual involvement of drugs being transported?

DENNIS - 4-15-2008 at 02:26 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by joel
Has anyone any idea how to request the military return?

The best time to put in a request like that is when it becomes evident that a boycot is affecting the cash flow.

LancairDriver - 4-15-2008 at 02:35 PM

It would be great to have the military back in Mulege as a deterent. However, the south part of the runway in Mulege where aircraft take off, is over 3,000ft away from the area where the Military was stationed previously. They would not have even been able to see where the incident took place from their previous station. This was a very well planned hijack, and any confrontation could easily have developed into a shootout and hostage situation. Thankfully, it turned out as well as could be hoped for under the circumstances. Supposedly one of the Bandits made the comment "today is a good day to die" as the hijack took place. Gives you a good idea of their mindset. Until the Mexican Government gets a handle on the problem, and our US marketplace for their product drys up the problem will continue. Who can guess what creative method they will come up with next?

sd - 4-15-2008 at 02:35 PM

Does anyone know if there was any attempt by the military or others to follow the plane, track it on radar, or alert other landing strips to be on the lookout for the stolen plane?

Or do you feel the authorities may be involved?

DENNIS - 4-15-2008 at 03:14 PM

Crime in Baja is a low risk venture for a criminal. Law and order itself is questionable in quality and outside of metropolitan areas, basically nonexistant and it's the old wild west with the new and heavily armed criminal. For the predator, it's catching fish in a barrel. The numbers of bad people increase at a high speed knowing the chances of being caught are slim and the victim is defensless.

Until the traveling U.S. public pulls themselves out of their state of denial and forms a coalition to boycot the peninsula, nothing will change. Nobody will hear a single voice or pay attention to it if they do. Our memories are too short and we tend to value the good time over the reason for our outrage at events such as this hijacking and thirty days from now, few will be talking of it. It will be business as usual.
It's as much our fault as anybody's for allowing it to go on without a strong, decisive reaction but, it seems to be the American way...Don't let atrocious crime interfere with a good day at the beach.

Travel Alert posted 4/14/08

sd - 4-15-2008 at 03:22 PM

Violence along the U.S. - Mexico Border. U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consumer Affairs has a warning posted.

The drug wars we are all aware of.

'Armed robberies and carjackings, apparently unconnected to the narcotics-related violence, have increased in Tijuana and Ciudad Juarez. Dozens of U.S. citizens were kidnapped and/or murdered in Tijuana in 2007".

"Criminals have followed and harassed U.S. citizens traveling in their vehicles, particularly in border areas including Nuevo Laredo, Matamoros and Tijuana".

This is just a small portion of the warning. Just a reminder to be alert.

The Sculpin - 4-15-2008 at 03:26 PM

SIGH..........

Dennis, please leave us be in our state of denial. My dog, my machete, my wits. That's all I need to keep this state of denial going.

If you think Baja is bad, you should try the Mentawis or the Seychelles! Let's see...drug runners? pirates? drug runners? pirates? Aw heck, the surf is better where the pirates are!

See ya!

Crusoe - 4-15-2008 at 03:31 PM

All of this incident is a little confusing......Does it just happen that as soon as a plane prepares to take off, six armed men in masks appear out of nowhere at just the right time and place?? Could there be more to this than we now know? It would really only take two bandits. Why so many?? Were they escaping from something else?? Were they moving drugs or money?? Also... How much fuel was onboard the plane?? Sooner or later they would have to refuel. Could not other airports be notified of the stolen plane??What was its range?? Was it tracked by any radar or military observation?? Or was it the military?? Many unansewerd questions. Thank god no one was harmed. ++C++

DENNIS - 4-15-2008 at 03:56 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by The Sculpin
Aw heck, the surf is better where the pirates are!

OK...I forgot that part.

DENNIS - 4-15-2008 at 04:01 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Crusoe
It would really only take two bandits. Why so many??

Who would know? I'm sure there are lots of wanted people who would like to cross the border without going through the gate or military check points.

Hook - 4-15-2008 at 05:01 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Beachgirl
Here's a happy thought in the middle of the obviously terrifying news....the six bad guys aren't here anymore. Yeah, I know all the other stuff...and I know they are causing trouble somewhere else, and yes, I hope someone shoots them (can I say that?), but still...they aren't here. Selfishly it is just nice to think of them NOT being in Mulege. I am not trying to make light of this situation, but I think I would be willing to pay bad guys to leave town...somewhat like the old time sheriffs would escort them to the edge of town with a "Don't come back" comment...of course I don't mean provide them with airplanes...maybe a hundred bucks and a bus ticket! Just wondering....how about some positive news, like how many planes come and go with no problems at all? Where are Arnold, Chuck and Sylvester when you need them?

yeah, THOSE bad guys arent in Mulege anymore. But without any closure to the story involving their capture, they (and other hombres) may have hit upon a means of re-enacting this again.

I'm guessing these weren't the only bad hombres involved with the cartels on the peninsula.........or even in Mulege.

Don't worry, be happy never worked for me............diligence is more effective.

We don't need no stinkin' gas station mon...

CasaManzana - 4-15-2008 at 09:00 PM

Fuel can be set up anywhere to be had...why would they fly into the limelight for fuel when it's set up somewhere else! What I want to know-
>do you have to file a flight plan...who knows what you plan to do?
>did Loreto know they were on their way for fuel that morning?
>is the hotel departure guest public knowledge?
>for 100 pesos, can you get a desk clerk to tell you the guests schedule for departure?
Did these guys sit on the hill for days waiting to see that they were leaving and jump into action in 20 minutes when they saw it was time to act? :?:

Bob and Susan - 4-16-2008 at 06:04 AM

LA TIMES TODAY

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/la-fg-plane16a...

Americans' plane stolen in Mexico
From the Associated Press
April 16, 2008

LOS CABOS, MEXICO -- Gunmen robbed a family of U.S. tourists of its small plane Tuesday in Mexico, police said.

The robbers struck as the American couple and their two daughters, ages 6 and 8, were about to take off from a hotel airstrip in the Baja California beach town of Mulege.

Detective Juan Carlos de Jesus Jimenez said the thieves pulled a car in front of the six-seat Cessna Stationair, knocked out one of the craft's windows and forced the family out at gunpoint. They then set fire to the car and flew off in the plane.

U.S. officials said they had heard reports of the incident but had not yet been in contact with the victims.

The plane's identification number matched a craft registered to a firm in Boise, Idaho.

Small aircraft are commonly used by Mexican drug cartels to smuggle narcotics.

bajaboolie - 4-16-2008 at 04:21 PM

Just wondering how the family is doing. Does anyone know? Are they back home? It really hit home when I learned kids were aboard. Gives me reservations about bringing my 5 year old. But it's hard to imagine not going to Mulege.

Also, I'm curious about why the military isn't there anymore and if there was a particular reason they were there to begin with.

Pescador - 4-16-2008 at 07:57 PM

I agree with Cap, this incident would not change much of what I do but I would certainly be a little more diligent and watchful. A lot of us come to Mexico to get away from all the rules, regulations, and structure of the US, but as soon as something happens we pretty much expect the solutions to come from government or someone else. I think the philosophy of watching out for yourself is a little more productive and more likely to produce results. I read about the car highjackings and I was very diligent and watchful of any vehicles that looked suspicious and made sure that I had some kind of escape route planned in the event of a problem. But the idea that my airplane only gets to spend time in the hangar at the military base sort of defeats the purpose of having one in the first place.
This was a very unfortunate experience that occured for the family and for the reputation of the Johnsons at Serinidad and I hope that both can get back to normal soon.

greybaby - 4-16-2008 at 08:07 PM

This has just hit the headlines of our local news here in Boise, Idaho - where this family is from. Here's the story posted on the website of a TV station here.

http://www.ktvb.com/news/localnews/stories/ktvbn-apr1608-mex...

plane stolen

ssreef - 4-17-2008 at 07:23 AM

OK, this is bad, as well as all the other movie style violence going on especially in the north, i.e. Tijuana.

Here is the reason, or so I believe after hearing it from locals in La Paz, Guerrero Negro, Loreto, etc..........is as follows.

Remember a few years back when the FBI, DEA, IRS, PGR, and every other US/MEX agencies spent five years tracking Arellano, and finally got him in intl. water off La PAz. Well there you have it, it is an open market now, no control. I am not supporting drug dealers nor drugs, however someone is going to do it. Mr Arrelano was not a saint, but it seems he did keep the general public out of the business, especially touristas. I believe his arrest is responsible for the violence that soon erupted in Vallarta and Acapulco as well. Sometime soon some other organized thug will control the market, hopefully entirely and not having conflict with another gang. The locals were not happy with his arrest either, they saw this coming right after he was locked up. He infused lots of cash into local economies up and down the penisula. Mostly in positive economic ways, however I am sure he had some hits taken care of where he felt needed. Drug smuggling is not a pretty industry, but it seems the old cartel leaders kept it from the tourism because they realize that the majority of their countrymen's income relies on our spending. It is very sad news how brazen they have gotten in Baja, I felt as if we were always different than the mainland. The influx of military may help with the petty stuff, but I can almost guarantee you they are just as connected as some policia. Let's hope for the best, and please do not let these isolated incidents stop you from enjoying La Baja.

Bill Collector - 4-17-2008 at 07:46 AM

This is to let everyone know that the family is doing OK. They just happen to be here renting our place in Buena Vista. They arrived late yesterday in the afternoon very tired, still very upset. They didn't want to talk about what happend, Lynn just said they were highjacked. Then I told her I had been reading it on the Nomads site. I asked her if they were the ones in the Mulege area. She told me the story it makes your heart so sad to see this great family so upset. The little girls still have tummy aches when they hear anything mentioned.
They seem like a nice family we just meet them last night........They have nothing, all their luggage was left on the plane. Passports, money, her purse. She manged to get one suitcase out since they had to remove it for them to get out the back seat. they will finish their vacation here then fly back...not sure what they will use for ID since they have nothing. I do know they have been in touch with the American & Mexican Consulate.

DENNIS - 4-17-2008 at 07:51 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by ssreef
I believe his arrest is responsible for the violence that soon erupted in Vallarta and Acapulco as well.

I'll save the space of quoting your entire statement but, doesn't this have a striking resemblence to the US position in Iraq? If George W. Blockhead could turn back time, I'll bet he would have left Saddam in power and tried to keep him under control instead of fighting a nation of lunatics who can't be controled.
I don't know...it's just a thought.

David K - 4-17-2008 at 07:54 AM

Thank you 'Bill Collector'... The story was printed and broadcast everywhere and we are so glad no physical harm came to them!

capt. mike - 4-17-2008 at 08:31 AM

the military when placed at the el gallito strip were a total nuisance and pain in the arse. Kids with automatics.
they couldn't have done anything on this one.
i hope they are not returned. we don't need them there - bunch of nimrods, i had to deal with them for far too many years. all they did was log the same data the front desk did on T-Os and LNDGS. and ocasionally a new jefe Jr. would "inspect" you to prove he was a big swinging $^&*.

the plane likely has been found in sinaloa according to a report re the N #s .

bajaboolie - 4-17-2008 at 09:25 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bill Collector
This is to let everyone know that the family is doing OK. They just happen to be here renting our place in Buena Vista. They arrived late yesterday in the afternoon very tired, still very upset. They didn't want to talk about what happend, Lynn just said they were highjacked. Then I told her I had been reading it on the Nomads site. I asked her if they were the ones in the Mulege area. She told me the story it makes your heart so sad to see this great family so upset. The little girls still have tummy aches when they hear anything mentioned.
They seem like a nice family we just meet them last night........They have nothing, all their luggage was left on the plane. Passports, money, her purse. She manged to get one suitcase out since they had to remove it for them to get out the back seat. they will finish their vacation here then fly back...not sure what they will use for ID since they have nothing. I do know they have been in touch with the American & Mexican Consulate.

Thanks, Bill Collector. I can imagine they will be upset for some time to come, too. Let them know that we Nomads are pulling for them. Hope they can get home without too much hassle.

Beachgirl - 4-17-2008 at 10:59 AM

We just went to town for breakfast and it's crawling with federales; 5 or 6 posted on every corner armed to the teeth. The city hall is plugged with soldiers, city and state police, politicians, and the like.It looks like someone VERY important is here. There's nothing they can do after the fact but at least it got someone's attention. We sure don't want it to happen again;makes it a little hard to sleep at night.

mulegemichael - 4-17-2008 at 01:19 PM

I just got the word from VERY reliable sources that the army will now be stationed at the airstrip 24/7. Big time generals,admirals,governor reps and the like, all met today with local officials here and the result is a permanent army encampment at the airstrip...sorry cap'n mike...but i am not against a military presence here if it can be ANY deterrent to what occurred a couple of days ago. My two cents

capt. mike - 4-17-2008 at 01:26 PM

figured. i can live with it. just another hassle to flying in baja, that's all. Mainland looking better all the time...........but i will tell you this, if they become haughty or abusive to Don's guests in any way on a regular basis even after this blows over, he'll use his strong contacts to back them off.

one time years ago a punk federale gave me a bunch of caca over a non event, i asked him in spanish if he'd like to go inside and talk to Don or Diana about it, like right now, and he said no and walked away.

awfulart - 4-17-2008 at 02:14 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by ssreef
OK, this is bad, as well as all the other movie style violence going on especially in the north, i.e. Tijuana.

Here is the reason, or so I believe after hearing it from locals in La Paz, Guerrero Negro, Loreto, etc..........is as follows.

Remember a few years back when the FBI, DEA, IRS, PGR, and every other US/MEX agencies spent five years tracking Arellano, and finally got him in intl. water off La PAz. Well there you have it, it is an open market now, no control. I am not supporting drug dealers nor drugs, however someone is going to do it. Mr Arrelano was not a saint, but it seems he did keep the general public out of the business, especially touristas. I believe his arrest is responsible for the violence that soon erupted in Vallarta and Acapulco as well. Sometime soon some other organized thug will control the market, hopefully entirely and not having conflict with another gang. The locals were not happy with his arrest either, they saw this coming right after he was locked up. He infused lots of cash into local economies up and down the penisula. Mostly in positive economic ways, however I am sure he had some hits taken care of where he felt needed. Drug smuggling is not a pretty industry, but it seems the old cartel leaders kept it from the tourism because they realize that the majority of their countrymen's income relies on our spending. It is very sad news how brazen they have gotten in Baja, I felt as if we were always different than the mainland. The influx of military may help with the petty stuff, but I can almost guarantee you they are just as connected as some policia. Let's hope for the best, and please do not let these isolated incidents stop you from enjoying La Baja.

Illegal drugs and illegal immigration are fed by supply and demand. As long as there are customers the supply will find its way, one way or another.

Serenedad airstrip (El Gallito)

Vince - 4-17-2008 at 02:26 PM

If the military comes back, I hope they also establish a post at the south end where the incident happened (runway 32). Those kids could have done nothing to stop the theft from the north end of the runway, 3500 feet away where they usually are. Maybe just the show of force at the south end will prevent another event. They will have to have 2 posts to be effective, at least during daylight hours when takeoffs occur.

roundtuit - 4-17-2008 at 04:37 PM

I totaly agree with Vince, I don't fly but know Serinadad. If they went to the south end to do a run up the mililtry would not been aware of what was happening as they would be at the north end. So they should follow the plane down the run way. Now the problem no vehicle, no gas, no persona. what to do ???? :?:

mtgoat666 - 4-17-2008 at 04:57 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by roundtuit
I totaly agree with Vince, I don't fly but know Serinadad. If they went to the south end to do a run up the mililtry would not been aware of what was happening as they would be at the north end. So they should follow the plane down the run way. Now the problem no vehicle, no gas, no persona. what to do ???? :?:

Every plane should be escorted 24 hours a day, and army should have fast car to escort them down the runway. Pilots should be escorted to bathroom in case they find it out of toilet paper or paper towels. Army should also escort me everytime I drive my car anywhere for any reason, including my afternoon trip to Gigante to pick up more toilet paper for the precious pilots. :lol:

Some people on here want the army, and other people belly ache that the armmy cramps their style (maybe they are drug runners who are inconvenienced by army presence?). :lol:

Seriously, if y'all want security at airports, then tell airport owner to provide it and tell him you will pay the landing fees to pay for it. In the US you get security for almosst free from uncle sam and me, the taxpayer. Your landing fees in the US don't begin to pay for private aviation security. Your fees don't begin to pay for FAA system. Private aviation and commercial aviation in get airport security and FAA system while taxpayers foot much of the bill.

mtgoat666 - 4-17-2008 at 05:05 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by mulegemichael
I just got the word from VERY reliable sources that the army will now be stationed at the airstrip 24/7. Big time generals,admirals,governor reps and the like, all met today with local officials here and the result is a permanent army encampment at the airstrip...sorry cap'n mike...but i am not against a military presence here if it can be ANY deterrent to what occurred a couple of days ago. My two cents

Not making light of victims loss, but this strikes me as favoritism on part of governmment. Multiple hijackings of cars of tourists results in lame government response. Single hijacking of small private plane results in ?

roundtuit - 4-17-2008 at 05:08 PM

very very funny ,toilet paper, pacifco,fish tacos. Seriously all US air lines, shipping lines and railroad have goverment assitance. If we every had a major conflict we would need all these types of transporting supplies, troops etc. Thats why we pay the big bucks

You need to check your aviation facts, sir

thebajarunner - 4-17-2008 at 05:31 PM

Quote:

Typical commercial landing fees, single landing, 747:

JFK $4451
LAX $3500
ORD $3433

My little mental computerbox sez that is about $100 per pax.

General aviation (that is us private pilots) pay a large premium for avgas in tax and local facility fees to pay for the local facitlities.

I just love that gang that sez "corporations and private users don't pay their own way"

greybaby - 4-17-2008 at 05:45 PM

Bajaboolie,
Thanks for the update on this family. They're in the thoughts and prayers of Boiseans as well as those of us who love Baja.

I do have to agree that a lot of this violence has to do with breaking up the Arellano Felix cartel. Now it's all-out war among those competing for the passage rights getting drugs to the market place, which happens to be the US.

roundtuit - 4-17-2008 at 05:47 PM

I worked at LAX for 12 years .. no one rides for free

bajaboolie - 4-17-2008 at 06:26 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by mtgoat666

Quote:

Favortism or a small community not putting up with serious violence? This could be a great example of people not sitting back and letting thugs take over their town. It's not as easy to do in a big sprawling city.

Skeet/Loreto - 4-18-2008 at 09:15 AM

I was in Mulege the Morning of the PlaneJacking.
The Pilot made a very bad Mistake taxing to the South end for a North Take-Off. There is a Large sign indicating that all aircraft are to take off to the South.

The Pilot and his Family were well cared for by Don.

For those interested look at the Stats on the Reported 100 Aircraft that have been Jacked in Mexico in the near Past.

Went fishing with Alex from the Sererinad, Best day of fishing in 25 years, Yellowtail and Amberjack Boiling on Top of the Water, Bait in the Millions.

P.S. Lots of good Real Estate Buys along the River.

Skeet/Loreto

Sharksbaja - 4-18-2008 at 09:24 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Skeet/Loreto
I was in Mulege the Morning of the PlaneJacking.
The Pilot made a very bad Mistake taxing to the South end for a North Take-Off. There is a Large sign indicating that all aircraft are to take off to the South.

The Pilot and his Family were well cared for by Don.

For those interested look at the Stats on the Reported 100 Aircraft that have been Jacked in Mexico in the near Past.

Went fishing with Alex from the Sererinad, Best day of fishing in 25 years, Yellowtail and Amberjack Boiling on Top of the Water, Bait in the Millions.

P.S. Lots of good Real Estate Buys along the River.

Skeet/Loreto

Lots of good Real Estate Buys everywhere. Don't blame the pilot Skeet.

Hook - 4-18-2008 at 09:37 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by mtgoat666

Quote:

I think the govt's response to the car jacking in BCN has been effective. Cant remember any since late last year, when they moved in.

This plane jacking was NOT a one-time deal, just the first one at Mulege in a while.

Besides, what else do the troops have to do............man fruitless checkpoints and extort sodas from tourists. :rolleyes:

Sharksbaja - 4-18-2008 at 09:52 AM

Actually Hook, there is a checkpoint that has fruit. :lol:

I think you are spot-on. There has been a reduced number of incidents reported in Baja. What amazes me is the ease at which these thieves operate. It seems they are comfortable stealing planes in disparate places. I doubt very much if the bandits are locals waiting for an unsuspecting family in a plane at the wrong end of a runway at 5:30 in the morning. Of course I could be wrong. In which case I welcome back the military to Mulege.

Hook - 4-18-2008 at 10:01 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Sharksbaja
Actually Hook, there is a checkpoint that has fruit. :lol:

You're right, I forgot about that one. :lol:

They have good meats, too. Those guys eat well. :rolleyes:

Hijacked Cessna

Vince - 4-18-2008 at 10:48 AM

I believe the sign Skeet is referring to @ Serenedad (El Gallito) says they want you to take off FROM the south to the north(runway 32) to prevent noise and dust from bothering the guests and neighbors. The pilot was doing it the right and customary way. Sometimes we have to depart from north to south because of the wind.

Sharksbaja - 4-18-2008 at 11:50 AM

Assuming that, one would expect the thieves to actually plan for a hijack at the other end. This is important because it would then put their actions close to the road and dock.
I find that curiously troubling. I smell a rat. Methinks these guys were tipped off by someone in the circle who could known these folks were leaving and perhaps also that they knew in advance which direction the plane would take off from.
The guys had masks, guns, vehicle et al. They had info. I doubt seriously if it was a fluke or rather an opportunist spur-of-the-moment hijack.

Bill Collector - 4-18-2008 at 12:23 PM

Hook,
Last night we had the little ones watching TV so we could visit with Marek and Lynn.. They explained everything that had happened. Having someone tell you "YOU WANT TO DIE TODAY" over and over again is a night mare. From what they said they only saw one gun, (one is enough for me). There could have been more, they didn't seen any other. The gun man never said one word to any one. Just aimed the gun at the pilot which is Marek's brother in law. Just one guy did the talking. She said two were in the car that blocked the plane the other 4 jumped over the fence. No one had masks one just hooded sweat shirts
They called our American Consulate in Cabo on Thursday.
They were told to come in any time from 9-2 it wont be a problem. The Consualte asked if they were the ones involved in the plane being stolen in Mulege Marek said yes.
That is all that from our American Consulate. No one has talked to them about anything. It's still ify about leaving with no documents to say who they are... we will see.
We are waiting for the North winds to stop blowing then were taking them all out fishing. The little girls told me this morning that they slept so good and felt safe here. That put a smile on my face. This is such a nice family we hadn't meet them before they arrived on Wednesday for their final stay in Baja..We gave them some fresh dorado for dinner last night.
They might stay with us a few extra days to sort things out we aren't sure yet it's fine with us...We are planning a FULL MOON party Sunday for them...
I told them last night that some of the nomads were saying a little pray for them and the girls. They were very interested in the Nomads site. I had lent them a lap top computer so they can reach all family and friends. They told me when they left our house last night they sat up reading all that was on Nomads.
They seem to be special people we are glad that we can help, that is what it's all about.
I copied this from the other post I had put it on..
Barb
* sorry this was so long. they have a very interesting story to tell some day..They still like BAJA and will be back at least they will be here in the Buena Vista area of Baja Sur.

Hook - 4-18-2008 at 01:22 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by grover

Quote:

Originally posted by Sharksbaja...they knew in advance which direction the plane would take off from...

Anybody with more than 10 hours behind the stick knows that; the "leg" is called "Upwind" for a reason.

FOR SURE they had inside info, as numerous posts including yours have pointed out.

I have to agree. Somehow they found out when they were leaving. Just makes more sense than them lying in wait for the first opportunity.

capt. mike - 4-18-2008 at 03:36 PM

The Pilot made a very bad Mistake taxing to the South end for a North Take-Off. There is a Large sign indicating that all aircraft are to take off to the South.

no...and thx Vince for correcting my ol' buddy Skeeter.
the thing is that sign is well intended but the english on it is lacking. it reads "take off to south" what it means is take off from south. all 1st timers ask about it cause the prevailing winds 99% of the time say use RW 32 never 14.

using 14 to depart causes a huge blast of dirt and sand to blanket all the parked planes and the hotel's courtyard - very bad form chaps, what?

Skeet/Loreto - 4-20-2008 at 08:03 AM

Mike: I have been into that Strip many times, I have never taken off to the North!

Why: During my many years investigating Aircraft Accidents I investigated several Bad ones caused by just such a Take Off:

If that Engine misses one good Beat you are into the Hill across the The River.

When I fly an Airplane I do not make my Takeoff based on whether or not someone is going to get a little Dust in their Eyes.

Side note: The Hijacked 206 was over Gross when it took off and made a very Low and slow turn to the West_he would have been very luckey to miss the Hill going Straight.

He knew how to Fly and Airplane, that is for Sure!

I am going back in October and get with Alex for some Big Dorado. Loreto is a Mess!

Skeet/Loreto

capt. mike - 4-20-2008 at 08:21 AM

Well Skeet you are the only one doing that. EVERYBODY that knows, 99% uses 32 and that's where the wind comes from, the north on the ground.

i'd rather have to deal with a little hill than takeoff downwind with a tail instead of a head!!!
if you were there frequently in and out and constantly used 14 for takeoffs the hotel and residents, along with a bunch of owners of parked planes would be out there in force with the pitch forks looking for sangre amigo! :lol:

glad you had good fishing with alex. he's got a very expensive Penn 600 i loaned him, i need it back, it is not mine!!

LancairDriver - 4-20-2008 at 08:57 AM

Mike is right! No one uses 14 for takeoff at Serenidad. Once about 25 years ago I saw a DC3 use 14 and everyone there would have tarred and feathered him if he had returned. There is no valid reason to use 14.

Ken Bondy - 4-20-2008 at 09:00 AM

To the best of my recollection, all of my 30+ takeoffs and landings at Serenidad were to the north (32). Skeet I don't understand your statement "If that Engine misses one good Beat you are into the Hill across the The River". Why couldn't you just turn? That little hill is not exactly like flying into a box canyon.
++Ken++

David K - 4-20-2008 at 09:05 AM

Last time I flew into and out of Serenidad, Mulege... it was to the north (runway 32)... However, I was in Capt. Mike's 'Screaming Airlines' plane! :rolleyes:

[Edited on 4-20-2008 by David K]

capt. mike - 4-20-2008 at 02:25 PM

aha!! that fat guy in the white shirt with the red cup sitting on the wingwalk is NOT Mike G, aka capt. mike here.
it is nobody of relevance and should be ignored!!!

Skeeters

MrBillM - 4-20-2008 at 05:11 PM

I'm assuming that Skeetster never flew in or out of Flabob airport in Riverside, although many thousands (including myself on numerous occasions) have without incident.

OR

Agua Caliente in San Diego County which also has a hill at the end of 29. Taking off on 29, you just jog to the right and go up the valley. Landing on 11, you come in from the Valley. No problem.

bancoduo - 4-20-2008 at 05:42 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by MrBillM

OR

Agua Caliente in San Diego County which also has a hill at the end of 29. Taking off on 29, you just jog to the right and go up the valley. Landing on 11, you come in from the Valley. No problem.

How long were you in the business? If you know what I mean. :cool:

Skeet/Loreto - 4-21-2008 at 07:20 AM

O. K. I get the Drift, However after about 2,000 Hours in Baja Alone, landing in all the small strips I could find in Baja Sur, Investigating 100's of Accidents, I would still take off to the South.
If you have an engine failure at the right time and make an attempt to turn you are asking for a Stall and think about all the People in your Path.

By the way, How many times have some of you been into the Strip up by the Old Hotel Mulege??

There are many Old Pilots and a fewer "Bold" Pilots.

Have a Good Day and keep Flying.

Skeet/Loret

Ken Bondy - 4-21-2008 at 07:54 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Skeet/Loreto
By the way, How many times have some of you been into the Strip up by the Old Hotel Mulege??

Just once for me. It was in 1974 and it was my first dirt-strip landing. I was in a Cardinal (C177RG) and unfamiliar with Mulege (or anything else in Baja). Landed up there on top of the hill, needed gas, nobody around. We hung around for a while, then took off and landed at Serenidad and the rest is history.
++Ken++

Skeet/Loreto - 4-21-2008 at 12:50 PM

Ken: Was just attempting to make sure that you don't have a misfire as you head for the Hill and try a Turn.

Over the years there have been way too many Takeoff Accidents when things get out of Hand.

Anyway you go, the Pilot has that decesion just like the Japan Airlines Dc8 that went in the Bay of San Francisco. The pilot made a 1,000 Ft. error in the Knob of his Altimeter.

Skeet/Loreto

Sharksbaja - 4-21-2008 at 02:04 PM

ouch :wow:

Excrement Occurs

MrBillM - 4-21-2008 at 05:08 PM

But because people do stupid things is no reason to paint with a broad brush.

In days past, I used to enjoy reading those stupid antics in Flying Magazine ("Pilot Error") and, I believe, Plane and Pilot ("I learned about Flying from that"), but I never had occasion or reason to contribute.

The "I Learned" was more enjoyable since the pilot survived. The "Pilot Error" was usually an after-event synopsis of a FATAL error.

Make mistakes. Bad things can happen.

stimbo - 4-21-2008 at 09:10 PM

Does anyone have a description of the plane? I was heading north around the El Marmol turnoff (south of El Rosario)... there was a Cessna flying low and erratically. This was in the late afternoon of April 18th.

Pescador - 4-22-2008 at 02:00 PM

Mike, have you or anyone heard whether or not the plane found in Sinaloa was in fact Pat's plane?

msrla - 4-23-2008 at 12:12 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bill Collector
Hook,
Last night we had the little ones watching TV so we could visit with Marek and Lynn.. They explained everything that had happened. Having someone tell you "YOU WANT TO DIE TODAY" over and over again is a night mare. From what they said they only saw one gun, (one is enough for me). There could have been more, they didn't seen any other. The gun man never said one word to any one. Just aimed the gun at the pilot which is Marek's brother in law. Just one guy did the talking. She said two were in the car that blocked the plane the other 4 jumped over the fence. No one had masks one just hooded sweat shirts
They called our American Consulate in Cabo on Thursday.
They were told to come in any time from 9-2 it wont be a problem. The Consualte asked if they were the ones involved in the plane being stolen in Mulege Marek said yes.
That is all that from our American Consulate. No one has talked to them about anything. It's still ify about leaving with no documents to say who they are... we will see.
We are waiting for the North winds to stop blowing then were taking them all out fishing. The little girls told me this morning that they slept so good and felt safe here. That put a smile on my face. This is such a nice family we hadn't meet them before they arrived on Wednesday for their final stay in Baja..We gave them some fresh dorado for dinner last night.
They might stay with us a few extra days to sort things out we aren't sure yet it's fine with us...We are planning a FULL MOON party Sunday for them...
I told them last night that some of the nomads were saying a little pray for them and the girls. They were very interested in the Nomads site. I had lent them a lap top computer so they can reach all family and friends. They told me when they left our house last night they sat up reading all that was on Nomads.
They seem to be special people we are glad that we can help, that is what it's all about.
I copied this from the other post I had put it on..
Barb
* sorry this was so long. they have a very interesting story to tell some day..They still like BAJA and will be back at least they will be here in the Buena Vista area of Baja Sur.

Barb,

Dave and I read about this and were horrified, but I take comfort in knowing that this family is staying with you and Rod and you guys are looking out for them.... my heart goes out to all of them...

Mimi

(Mimi, Dave & Hanna)

Bill Collector - 4-23-2008 at 12:18 PM

HI Mimi
Thanks, they were back home in their own beds last night.
Heard from them today they are just trying to get things taken care of.
Tell Dave and Hanna HI from us
Barb

msrla - 4-23-2008 at 12:31 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bill Collector
HI Mimi
Thanks, they were back home in their own beds last night.
Heard from them today they are just trying to get things taken care of.
Tell Dave and Hanna HI from us
Barb

Glad to hear they made it home safely, Barb, and tell Rod, DC & Paula hi from all of us, we hope to get up your way sometime beginning of July, hope to see you all, Hanna would love to hook up with the kids again if they are going to be there!

MR

bajaguy - 4-23-2008 at 01:11 PM

I'm taking a printout of this thread and the Consulate thread (carefully edited, of course) to my US Congressman on Saturday. Even though he is from Nevada, I will ask him to look into the actions/non-actions of the Consulate in Cabo.

[Edited on 4-23-2008 by bajaguy]

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