BajaNomad - Car Jackings South El Rosario

Car Jackings South El Rosario

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bajachris - 3-29-2009 at 01:32 PM

I called some friends near Punta Prieta. Apparently there have been lots of car jackings between El Rosario and Guerrerro Negro. It happens in the afternoon between 1-5 pm. (Those who travel during the day are no longer safe). Another Baja veteran told me there have been some 50 car jackings in the desert between Catavina and Guerrerro. I heard that they have caught some people, but not all. Some people are missing or maybe dead. Police may be involved.

Can anyone confirm?

CaboRon - 3-29-2009 at 01:39 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajachris
I called some friends near Punta Prieta. Apparently there have been lots of car jackings between El Rosario and Guerrerro Negro. It happens in the afternoon between 1-5 pm. (Those who travel during the day are no longer safe). Another Baja veteran told me there have been some 50 car jackings in the desert between Catavina and Guerrerro. I heard that they have caught some people, but not all. Some people are missing or maybe dead. Police may be involved.

Can anyone confirm?

You can pretty much bet that Mexico's finest ARE involved ....

It's worse than I thought.

Dave - 3-29-2009 at 01:42 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajachris
Another Baja veteran told me there have been some 50 car jackings in the desert between Catavina and Guerrerro....Police may be involved.

Heaven help us. :rolleyes:

DENNIS - 3-29-2009 at 01:43 PM

Like BajaChris said, we need confirmation. Mexico is no place to put faith in 'hearsay."

By the way, BajaChris, welcome to BajaNomad.

[Edited on 3-29-2009 by DENNIS]

bajabound2005 - 3-29-2009 at 02:01 PM

Here a couple of articles from Ensenada's El Vigia:
Exigen seguridad en carreteras

Por Nicté Madrigal / EL VIGÍA
2009-03-25 00:00:00
Ensenada, B.C. - Luego que residentes de la zona Sur del municipio dieran a conocer los asaltos ocurridos en la carretera Transpeninsular, entre Cataviña y El Rosario, prestadores de servicios y algunos ciudadanos exigieron atención de las autoridades.

Expresaron que en vísperas de Semana Santa, los gobernantes deben mandar un mensaje de confianza a los ciudadanos y a quienes decidan visitar Baja California.

En e-mails enviados a El Vigía, coincidieron que ante la baja de turistas por factores como la crisis económica y la inseguridad, los esfuerzos deben ir más allá del discurso.

Comerciantes reconocieron los avances que se registran en este sentido, sin embargo, dijeron, no podemos concebir que los encargados de garantizar seguridad “se echen la bolita”. Se manifestaron extrañados de la actitud del alcalde Pablo Alejo López Núñez.

Algunos fragmentos de los correos electrónicos: “Leí con preocupación su nota informativa y el editorial publicados ambos el día martes 24 del mes en curso...sobre la denuncia que hacen los afectados respecto a una serie de asaltos a automovilistas en la carretera Transpeninsular.

Pero más me preocuparon las declaraciones del ahora alcalde de Ensenada, donde deja prácticamente en estado de indefensión a quienes transitan por esta importante ruta.

Menciona palabras más, palabras menos, que los asaltos toda la vida han ocurrido en esta vialidad”.

Antes que ocurran estos delitos, emplazamos a las autoridades de los tres niveles de gobierno, como a la Secretaría de Turismo, a que tomen cartas en el asunto para tranquilidad de todos los paseantes, mismos que se desplazarán a lo largo y ancho de la península en esta próxima Semana Santa, concluye.

Denuncian asaltos en Transpeninsular
Nicté Madrigal / EL VIGÍA (nmadrigal@elvigia.net) / 2009-03-23 00:00:00
Autoridades municipales solicitarán a la Policía Federal que refuerce la vigilancia

Las víctimas argumentaron haber sido despojados de sus vehículos y pertenencias.
Ensenada, B.C. - Dos asaltos ocurridos en la carretera Transpeninsular, al Sur del municipio, fueron denunciados ante las autoridades de la Subprocuraduría de Justicia zona Ensenada; las víctimas argumentaron haber sido despojados de sus vehículos y pertenencias, para posteriormente ser abandonados desnudos y en despoblado.

Los incidentes acontecieron en el tramo carretero comprendido entre Cataviña y El Rosario, además un residente del poblado Guerrero Negro denunció las constantes agresiones que sufren los automovilistas que transitan por la vialidad.

Las denuncias fueron presentadas en las instalaciones de la Procuraduría General de Justicia del Estado (PGJE) con sede en San Quintín, por corresponder a su jurisdicción.

Gustavo Villavicencio Urías, residente de Guerrero Negro, acudió a El Vigía para señalar que en el tramo carretero El Rosario-Chapala, los viajeros son despojados de sus automóviles y dinero.

El ciudadano manifestó que frecuentemente viaja de Guerrero Negro a Ensenada, y que ahora lo hace con temor debido a los asaltos carreteros. “No es posible que la gente viaje de manera atemorizada, a la espera de que algo malo les pueda pasar”, dijo.

Villavicencio especificó que el motivo de sus viajes es de carácter laboral, ya que de su actividad depende su familia, por lo que solicita a las autoridades de la Policía Federal Preventiva (PFP), División Caminos, que incrementen la vigilancia en la carretera.

Siempre han ocurrido

Al respecto, el alcalde Pablo Alejo López Núñez indicó que fue informado de la situación durante su gira más reciente por delegaciones de la zona Sur.

A mí, dijo, me comentaron de un hecho en el que intervino la Policía Municipal en apoyo de la Policía Federal Preventiva, incluso tuvieron un accidente.

“Estos asaltos toda la vida han ocurrido en esta vialidad, por lo que los hemos hecho del conocimiento, en este afán de coordinación de la PFP, hemos pedido mayor patrullaje”.

Nosotros, continuó, estamos haciendo lo propio, reforzando las delegaciones con más elementos, con más unidades. Pero siempre han ocurrido este tipo de hechos.

Sin embargo, dijo, estamos buscando que ocurran lo menos posible, o que no ocurran. López Núñez indicó que pedirán a la PFP que refuerce los patrullajes y tome cartas en el asunto, independientemente del apoyo que la corporación municipal pueda dar.

Udo - 3-29-2009 at 02:23 PM

Our appreciation for posting the original story in Spanish, BB. The real story with no interpretation. One can make up their own minds.
It appears that Americans were not targeted or they would have written about it. This appears to another crime of opportunity. Just keep your eyes open, fellow Nomads.
Perhaps the perps are cops, but nothing is written about it...yet.

That's a long stretch

Sharksbaja - 3-29-2009 at 03:29 PM

More unconfirmed rumors.

[Edited on 3-29-2009 by Sharksbaja]

rpleger - 3-29-2009 at 03:31 PM

Not good news for us that live in the South.

Sharksbaja - 3-29-2009 at 03:33 PM

I think we would have heard all about it by now. 50? That's a bunch of jackings. Sounds a bit fishy.

Yeah, smelly too!

Dave - 3-29-2009 at 03:51 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Sharksbaja
Sounds a bit fishy.

I think they're jacking fish.

Bob and Susan - 3-29-2009 at 04:50 PM

havent heard anything here in mulege :?:

woody with a view - 3-29-2009 at 05:16 PM

so, we're to surmise that at least 50 people have been rescued, standing alone in the desert by the road, by passers-by and baja chris is the only one to hear about it in the outside world.

is it april 1st yet? :light:

Latest News

CaboRon - 3-29-2009 at 05:17 PM

This just in:

A series of car jackings has been the work of an elderly couple driving a stolen U-Haul.

They always say "we're on a mission from god" as they pull up.

:lol:

surfer jim - 3-29-2009 at 05:21 PM

Maybe all the victims ....all 50 carloads of them.... are in the back of the phantom U-Haul.....another "hard to believe" story for me......

A lot of us had the same idea at the same time.....(edit)

[Edited on 3-30-2009 by surfer jim]

car jackings

BajaDanD - 3-29-2009 at 05:29 PM

How come none of us have heard anything about these events. There havent been 50 CJs reported anywhere in Baja. When just one happens the news picks the story up and runs with it over and over again. Imagine if there had been 50 just how much the Media would have blown that out of perportion.
Come on guys
Someone has fed Chris a story Maybe they want to keep the serf all to themselves.
50 car jackings, "give me a break"

Don't know, but ...

Dave - 3-29-2009 at 05:30 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by soulpatch
Does anyone actually live anywhere proximal to Punta Prieta?

I hear they're opening a used car lot.

bajachris - 3-29-2009 at 05:49 PM

I share the sentiments about people spreading rumors to keep the surf uncrowded. But, I heard from one friend who was traveling through Guerrerro Negro and speaks very good Spanish. She stated 50 cars, judicial involved. So we called Alejandro's son, Martin and he confirmed that there have been problems South of El Rosario with car jackings. Alejandro's is a very well known surf spot south of Punta Prienta on the Pacific Ocean. These people are Mexican and only benefit from American tourism, so they have no reason to start false rumors. Couldn't confirm number of car jackings from him. But they felt uncomfortable recommending that we drive down there. Said that they have caught some of the banditos, but not all. 50 seems like a high number to me. The press would eat that up. However, the news media is not always truthful <nah>.

Sharksbaja - 3-29-2009 at 06:19 PM

Seems like they know more than they should.

Yes Dave, a smelly story. Sorry Chris, but there is something odd about the whole thing.

vandenberg - 3-29-2009 at 06:35 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Sharksbaja
Seems like they know more than they should.

Yes Dave, a smelly story. Sorry Chris, but there is something odd about the whole thing.

Noooooooooo........ :lol:

Leo - 3-29-2009 at 06:37 PM

I like that Dave, 'opening up a used car lot'
The whole thing is a joke. 50? and nobody knows about it?

Skip_Mac - 3-29-2009 at 07:17 PM

Lets see, it's been almost three weeks since I drove that stretch of highway alone in my car. Fifty carjackings on that stretch would be several per day. Any reasonable person would wonder why there was no Headline Coverage in the tabloid US newspapers. Also, such a crime rate would draw official attention...several carjackings per day on one stretch of highway. Gimme a break. Tell the original poster to use some common sense and stop polluting these paged with wild tales.

Leo - 3-29-2009 at 07:41 PM

well said Skip Mac

djh - 3-29-2009 at 07:49 PM

On a side note....

One of the things I like about languages..... A literal translation of the aforementioned article using BabelFish yeilded this:

"The victims argued to be undressed of their vehicles and properties, to be left later naked and in uninhabited.".

and

"the travellers are undressed of their automobiles and money"

I don't really mean to laugh at someone else's misery....

bajabound2005 - 3-29-2009 at 07:56 PM

Well, if you actually bothered to READ the articles in their intact language...I believe something has happened, and more than once. 50 tiimes? NO. But the government's take on it seems to be this always happened there, what's the big deal? You cannot but those articles into translators and get the real meaning, it only gives you a hint of the real story. DJH, your translation is uncalled for!

DENNIS - 3-29-2009 at 08:25 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Sharksbaja
Sorry Chris, but there is something odd about the whole thing.

Not buying that, Corky. Too much here that has credibility. Or, deserves the attention to prove it wrong.
Have we seen that yet?

DENNIS - 3-29-2009 at 08:34 PM

Thanks for that, Frank. You have the practical mind.

Geeze Us !

djh - 3-29-2009 at 08:48 PM

"Your translation" [actually Babel Fish, as I clearly said] is no more uncalled for than your pompous, arrogant, presumptiousness!

Get some fresh air.

Quote:

Originally posted by bajabound2005
Well, if you actually bothered to READ the articles in their intact language...I believe something has happened, and more than once. 50 tiimes? NO. But the government's take on it seems to be this always happened there, what's the big deal? You cannot but those articles into translators and get the real meaning, it only gives you a hint of the real story. DJH, your translation is uncalled for!

All Nomads report your recent experiences.

toneart - 3-29-2009 at 08:58 PM

As I read the BajaChris's report, it seems to me that he is being responsible. He has heard this from what he consideres to be reliable Mexican sources. He also says that the number 50 hijackings seems exaggerated. He is a newby, but he has returned to comment.

This is a very serious topic, if true. It severely impacts we who have residences in the South and who have to travel through that area.

I prefer to not believe the report but then I don't think it is a stretch of the imagination to think that it may be real. As the "War on Drugs", and all the money we are pouring into it in the border region intensifies, it is logical that the criminals would move further south and do a little fund raising. I fully expect the Mexican Government (this is not a country that is in full control) and the criminals to implement reprisals.

This report, true or not, is now out there and the idea is germinating. Not a good thing! So, let's us be responsible and suspend the usual sarcastic remarks, and try to verify what we can.

I would like all nomads who live, travel or have reliable contacts in that stretch of HWY 1, between El Rosario and Gurerrero Negro, to inquire and report what they hear.

Who can we trust? Certainly not the Judiciales or local policia. Maybe the highway patrols are trustworthy. They seem to be doing their duties and not shaking people down.

It has been reported on this board recently that there are several checkpoints set up by police in addition to the army checkpoints. Who are they? Could this be where this is occuring, or the cause of the stories originating?

How do journalists have actual, reliable access to the truth in that fairly remote region unless they are assigned to the story? It is not safe for them either.

I think that our board members can dig and turn up timely and hopefully factual information. Also, any travelers who have gone through that region in the last few weeks, please report what, if anything, they see or experience.

I do not live or travel in fear, but part of that attitude is possible only when well informed.

Thank you Nomads. Do what you do best; be helpful. Also be vigilant and be careful. Vie Bien!

Desert Whispers

Mulegena - 3-29-2009 at 09:00 PM

Gotta jump in here...

We traveled north one week ago today in my old Pathfinder. It had some transmission problems before we left, so we were concerned about the car's longevity.

Well, it was near evening as we approached Punta Prieta. We were enjoying the evening colors and debating a stop for the night in Catavina or hitting it for El Rosario. At first we thought it was just the rolling hills, but then realized the rpm's were up at 4k and we were slowing down. Dang, the tranny's slipping! We turned around, asked for a mechanic and slowly drove to his house at the top of the hill.

He and his wife took us to the grocery store and got them to open up so we could use the town's only phone to call our family in San Diego who said they would drive down to get us. The call was 40 pesos per minute and very bad reception. They took us home, fed us with their family and gave us their livingroom fold-out couch to sleep the night.

The next morning he looked the car over and decided he could not fix it. We walked to the grocery store again to call a "yonke" in Ensenada about a used tranny. Again, the call was expensive and poor reception-- and no luck, no tranny.

Over a lunch of hot tortillas and boiled chicken with mole (delicious) our hosts gently told us they had heard of robberies and murders on the highway north. As we asked specific questions the answers were always affirmative, even if ambiguous and contradictory. We realized that although they were sincere they could not substantiate their story, it was simply "common knowledge".

Our take on this? Even though Punta Prieta is on the highway it is effectively a remote and isolated community. There is only the most basic of phone services, and communication with the outside world occurs randomly and sporadic. Yes, of course we're cautious while traveling. However until specific incidents are recognized and documented, with reservation, we put these stories in the realm of urban legend.

The Pathfinder? We decided it had finally died a complete death, so cleaned it out and bequeathed it to the mechanic!

toneart - 3-29-2009 at 09:17 PM

Thank you Maria, for that report. Sorry about the demise of your vehicle.

One wonders how these "urban legends" (hardly urban) originate. There must be some basis. Perhaps it traveled by word-of-mouth and built from the tragic murder by cartel members, of the toco stand woman in El Rosario last fall, or the motel owner's highway murder (from Bahia de Los Angeles) near Catavina a couple of years ago. These sporadic events do occur. Maybe those stories are the basis for the recent rumors. I hope that is all it is.

bajachris - 3-29-2009 at 09:27 PM

Doubters

First of all I asked for verification because the story does not completely add up. 50 car loads of people dead or missing is very questionable but that's what I was told by someone who I deem credible. Secondly when I called one of my contacts who frequents the area and lives about 2 hours north of Guerrero Negro they did not say this story is bullchit. They said there have been car jacking's in the area mostly in the afternoon and recommended that we be careful. And finally we have a post with an article addressing this subject. Something is going on.

My post was not to spread rumors but to see if anyone knows anything that will help us to travel safely if we do in fact decide to make our trip through the area in question.

Those in denial have to accept a few facts.

1. These incidents have occurred up north and it is not unreasonable that someone would decide to take advantage of the remoteness of the high desert area.

2. Just because the news media has not caught on to this does not mean this problem is fiction. IMO, the biggest danger is the road and I have never seen the number of accidents or the danger the road can pose reported on in the media. I still worry more about having an accident then I do about running into members of the drug cartel and being shot.

3. Mexico is a poor country and economically things are worse than ever. People need to make a living and the police can not always be trusted.

I hope that when it is all said and done the people responsible are caught or this story proves to be exaggerated and we can travel safely. Until then if you have any information at all that can be used to help us all travel safer please share it.

Thanks

bajachris - 3-29-2009 at 09:50 PM

Nomads

Although a newbie to this forum, we are not Baja newbies. We have been visiting Baja for 15 years, own property, and have built a house with help from the local people. Baja is in our blood and we love it.

The stories toneart mentioned I have verified with friend's I have in Bahia, the guys who help me with my house and people I know El Rosario. Mulegena story sounds about right based on my impression. Something is going on and we need to flush out the details and factor them into our travels. I am not saying don't ever go to Baja again. But we do need to be a whole lot more careful than before. We may need to caravan down with other in the future.

Thanks

BAJACAT - 3-29-2009 at 10:02 PM

Any idea on the methodes this rufiants are using to stop the cars, Do they look like police officers, or do they set it up as if they need help in the road knowing that most of the Turistas stop to help. We need top have and idea on thier MO, so people know what to look for.

PS I hope is just isolated incidents..

Mulegena - 3-29-2009 at 10:06 PM

Thank you, Chris, for your report.

It is important for all of us, resident and tourist, to live and travel with respect and awareness of our environment.

We know there is some basis of fact in this report, and its with an interest for a balance between fact and possibility that I've reported my personal experience.

I'll travel south again in a few weeks and will report at that time. As Toneart requested, have any other travelers conversations or incidents to share on this thread?

nancyinpdx - 3-29-2009 at 10:13 PM

Chris, it's good you appear to have a relatively thick skin; you'll need it in order to survive on this board. Welcome to Bajanomad.

bajachris - 3-29-2009 at 10:16 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by djh
On a side note....

One of the things I like about languages..... A literal translation of the aforementioned article using BabelFish yeilded this:

"The victims argued to be undressed of their vehicles and properties, to be left later naked and in uninhabited.".

and

"the travellers are undressed of their automobiles and money"

I don't really mean to laugh at someone else's misery....

It is not "Undressed" the correct translation would be stripped or deprived of..

My understanding of the article is the people living in Guerrero are afraid to travel to Ensenada due to Banditos in the high desert and want additional police patrols out there.

So don't laugh, its not funny.

bajachris - 3-29-2009 at 10:19 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by BAJACAT
Any idea on the methodes this rufiants are using to stop the cars, Do they look like police officers, or do they set it up as if they need help in the road knowing that most of the Turistas stop to help. We need top have and idea on thier MO, so people know what to look for.

That is what I was hoping to find out.

Sharksbaja - 3-29-2009 at 10:56 PM

Gee, I said I was sorry.

If the story isn't greatly exagerrated I'll eat my freakin' truck. If it is true it shows this forum and it's thousands of visitors and the travelers of that stretch of hiway are hiding something quite well or we really don't know what's happening.

Where are the official reports. Some one should have more info to affirm the story and report. I need convincing material.

I'll have to go with Tony and just say, imho, that I think it's not at all accurate.

Here ya go Soulpatch:

FINGER.jpg - 889B

Bajahowodd - 3-29-2009 at 11:27 PM

42 postings in half a day. All started by a newbie. Maybe all with good intentions. But, if there were even a couple of such occurrences, would not there have been some reportage? I am soon going to make that trip. As I have several times a year for many years. It gives me pause. And it also makes me wonder if newbie is saving my life, or screwing with me.

DENNIS - 3-30-2009 at 12:01 AM

We are a hard sell...as the saying goes. Too bad we're so mean and thankless about it.
We get a warning and we fry the messanger.
One of these days, when all hell breaks loose...... those who we hope to hear from will stay silent for fear of ridicule. Right...or wrong, Chris was just trying to help us. That's my take on this issue.

I don't know how to spell,"messanger" but, what I did up there doesn't look right.

When all else fails, use a dictionary....MESSENGER

[Edited on 3-30-2009 by DENNIS]

Sharksbaja - 3-30-2009 at 12:51 AM

Mess-anger...very funny Dennis. No we don't want to shoot the messager. His information is most likely real but waaaay out of proportion. It's probably a few jackings which is a few too many.

Not trying to call anyone a liar here but unfortunately facts do get skewed between recipients, the news stories and all in between.

I for one hope it is just an overstated situation.

Skeet/Loreto - 3-30-2009 at 06:37 AM

, Tent Cities popping up all over the States

Pacifico - 3-30-2009 at 07:50 AM

Thanks for the info BajaChris - even if it is partially true it is good to be made aware of. Looking forward to more reports on this.....

Cardon Man - 3-30-2009 at 07:50 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Skeet/Loreto
, Tent Cities popping up all over the States

Non Sequitur.

George, I feel the same way about stopping these days.

Pompano - 3-30-2009 at 08:55 AM

Damn, Jorge...I can't believe that the time has come in Baja when we feel leary about stopping to give assistance on the Baja Road, but it's come to that...and more's the pity.

I just made the Mulege-San Diego and return trip myself a few weeks ago...in late February. I was in a hurry so didn't stop for a motel or to visit with any locals, but did give this family from Italy a ride. Thier rental had broke down in the hills, and rather than wait out in the lonely desert, decided to meet thier other companion car in Guerroro Negro, and were standing there hitching alonside the highway. After making sure nobody had an Uzi, I made room for the group in the pickup bed, and away we went.
.

.
It was a considerable distance to GN.

.
We were happy to help this nice family and they insisted on buying us dinner and a beer.

Now here's the bad part...If it had not been a harmless-looking family, I don't think I would have stopped. That's what the last few years have done to Baja.

bajachris - 3-30-2009 at 08:57 AM

FYI, check out the US state department's listing about traveling in Mexico:

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_3028.html

"Robberies, homicides, petty thefts, and carjackings have all increased over the last year across Mexico generally, with notable spikes in Tijuana and northern Baja California...

In some cases, assailants have worn full or partial police or military uniforms and have used vehicles that resemble police vehicles. While most crime victims are Mexican citizens, the uncertain security situation poses serious risks for U.S. citizens as well."

The information above is from the state department's web site.

Also, don't ever underestimate the government censorship of Mexico press. They don't allow them to release all information to the US. You don't have the right to bear arms or freedom of speech down there.

I've sure everyone's family is constantly warning them not to go to Mexico, just like my family is. And, obviously you ignore all the past warnings like we have. We love Baja and want to continue to visit. We figured if we drove during the day and bypassed TJ and Rosarito, we'd be fine. But these warnings from my original posting of a "newbie" are just a little to close to home (South of El Rosario), and they are happening during the day time. Continue to go if you want, but please post any problems that you have so we can make informed decisions about future trips.

bajachris - 3-30-2009 at 09:05 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Sharksbaja
If the story isn't greatly exagerrated I'll eat my freakin' truck.

Let us know how that truck passes. :spingrin:

shari - 3-30-2009 at 09:11 AM

I appreciate this thread as many many locals here travel regularly between here and ensenada where we have family members. That is one lonely stretch of road...perfect place for carjackings and not many cops at all...it is the extreme southern point of Ensenada county and somewhat forgotten. There have always been problems there but mostly mexicans were targeted...many mexicans travel with wads of cash and hold ups are more common than you think.
I am very concerned as sirenita may be travelling this stretch and as a result of this thread, I will warn her and others to, not to stop for a pee...or anything else for that matter.
Because it hit the papers, there IS something going on...good thing they got some of the bad guys but sounds like there are some still lurking out there so be on guard.

DianaT - 3-30-2009 at 09:12 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Pompano

Now here's the bad part...If it had not been a harmless-looking family, I don't think I would have stopped. That's what the last few years have done to Baja.

We have followed this thread with a lot of interest since we travel back and forth every month to six weeks---just came back last Thursday and saw several army trucks, but nothing unusual.

While I hope it is not happening, it sounds more and more like it is---I do hope they catch ALL the bad guys. :fire:

And I agree. Stopping to help has changed in some ways. Last time we drove out from Bahia Asuncion to Vizcaino, by the time we got back to Bahia Asuncion, we had six passengers----but we had profiled before we stopped. (Two different flat tire incidents and no spares) One was a family and the other were men we knew from Bahia Asuncion.

The locals have warned us that car robberies have happened on the road from Vizcaino to Tortugas, so we are careful. I feel bad, but if it is several young men, we don't stop.

I do hope to hear more about this, especially, as already said, how are they doing this---how do they stop the cars?

Diane

wilderone - 3-30-2009 at 09:37 AM

50? That a lot of cars to ditch. What are the perps doing with all these cars? What's the purpose? Dismantle them for parts? Do what with the parts? Rob the drivers? They can do that without taking their cars. Take the drivers' luggage with their clothes and shampoo? And do what with it? Kinda of a dumb crime if you ask me. And three have been caught? There can't be too many more who will try this, when everyone now knows who, what, where, how much and how many. Take your pepper spray and don't stop.

DENNIS - 3-30-2009 at 11:25 AM

I'm passing on this report that was sent to me three weeks back. It seems to be part of the picture.
Again, this is not my story but, from one you know well.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"I am going to make this as short as possible. On the way down to Mulege my wife and I stopped for the night to camp at El Paballon RV park, on 17th of Febuary. When we woke up the next morning at 5:30, there were two Mexican guys acting like they were looking at some old whale bones at the parks entrance. We could tell they were checking us out. My only thought was that we were lucky we woke up so early. We broke camp and were on the road only a few minutes later. We had only taken out the necessities, as we were just camping for the night. As the road turns up into the hills that go over to El Rosario I notice in my rear view mirror a truck rounding the corner behind us that was going way too fast. I immediately said commented about it to my wife. We decided to speed up and try and stay ahead of them. No matter how fast I went they were still catching up with us. At that point I decided that there was no way I was going to let them pass. I pushed my truck as hard as I could, and then a little bit more. They were right on our bumper now. At the exit of every curve, they would try and come along side of us, but I would gun it and our truck had more pick up than theirs. Thank God. I had more or a load than they did though so they would catch up on the curves. My wife was looking back and could see the passenger had a rifle between his legs, and that they were the same two guys from the camp ground. We were in a race for our lives. Finally we could see the top of the mesa where the army check point is. I floored it and we started to pull away from the banditos. At which point they turned around. We told the army guys what had just happened, but they were uninterested."

Bajaboy - 3-30-2009 at 11:33 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS
I'm passing on this report that was sent to me three weeks back. It seems to be part of the picture.
Again, this is not my story but, from one you know well.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"I am going to make this as short as possible. On the way down to Mulege my wife and I stopped for the night to camp at El Paballon RV park, on 17th of Febuary. When we woke up the next morning at 5:30, there were two Mexican guys acting like they were looking at some old whale bones at the parks entrance. We could tell they were checking us out. My only thought was that we were lucky we woke up so early. We broke camp and were on the road only a few minutes later. We had only taken out the necessities, as we were just camping for the night. As the road turns up into the hills that go over to El Rosario I notice in my rear view mirror a truck rounding the corner behind us that was going way too fast. I immediately said commented about it to my wife. We decided to speed up and try and stay ahead of them. No matter how fast I went they were still catching up with us. At that point I decided that there was no way I was going to let them pass. I pushed my truck as hard as I could, and then a little bit more. They were right on our bumper now. At the exit of every curve, they would try and come along side of us, but I would gun it and our truck had more pick up than theirs. Thank God. I had more or a load than they did though so they would catch up on the curves. My wife was looking back and could see the passenger had a rifle between his legs, and that they were the same two guys from the camp ground. We were in a race for our lives. Finally we could see the top of the mesa where the army check point is. I floored it and we started to pull away from the banditos. At which point they turned around. We told the army guys what had just happened, but they were uninterested."

So these banditos were going to car jack this couple just around the corner from the military stop?

Sharksbaja - 3-30-2009 at 11:35 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajachris

Quote:

Originally posted by Sharksbaja
If the story isn't greatly exagerrated I'll eat my freakin' truck.

Let us know how that truck passes. :spingrin:

I'm not breaking out the hot sauce yet!

----
Dennis, wouldn't it have been prudent to give us the heads up then?

[Edited on 3-30-2009 by Sharksbaja]

vandenberg - 3-30-2009 at 11:38 AM

No reason to disbelieve Dennis.
He's hardly known for making up stories.
Thanks Dennis.

Sharksbaja - 3-30-2009 at 11:49 AM

I wasn't inferring that.

btw, I had a similar thang happen to me on that old bad stretch between GN and Viscaino.

I didn't want to go 100 mph there so I opted to pull over quickly into the desert with a plan to go cross-country if they stopped. They didn't and I have no idea if they were armed or drunk or what but they went flying by. It did rattle my nerves.

shari - 3-30-2009 at 11:59 AM

OK, I just talked to my sister in law tita who talked to some folks in GN at the hospital who were chatting about the recent problems with carjackers in that area...so rumour appear to be true and many people are afraid to travel that section at the moment. It is not known if the cars are targeted but possible that the bad guys know who is carrying cash...perhaps they are watched from GN...the bank etc... and followed...just not known if they are random or planned attacks but everyone in the GN area is talking about it as many victims are from there. People from other villages come to GN to go to the bank to cash their paychecks etc.

Sharksbaja - 3-30-2009 at 12:07 PM

Let me get this straight. We, the Nomads with all our connections and eyeballs and ears are just now privy to something that directly affects our well-being.

Gee thanks Baja. :mad:

Sorry again Chris.

Better go buy some syrup of epicac now......

DENNIS - 3-30-2009 at 12:08 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by vandenberg
No reason to disbelieve Dennis.
He's hardly known for making up stories.
Thanks Dennis.

Thanks Ed. The man who sent it to me has better things to do than make up stories as well. Wish I could give his name but, can't.

DENNIS - 3-30-2009 at 12:17 PM

All of this illustrates the need for caravans. We've talked at length about this in the past. The topic needs to be reopened.

woody with a view - 3-30-2009 at 12:22 PM

interesting..... late last summer Martin's brother Jorge had his truck stolen in GN. it was stripped and then the cops found it. i thought that this may have had something to do with Martin's remarks being misinterpreted.

my bad!

No caravans

Dave - 3-30-2009 at 12:29 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS
All of this illustrates the need for caravans. We've talked at length about this in the past. The topic needs to be reopened.

I'd rather get jacked than spend eternity behind some silly caravan.

yellowtail67 - 3-30-2009 at 12:30 PM

If this thread has bits of truth, and it seems too, it is a sad day........
That said, who is traveling down in mid-May? Wanna caravan into Santa Rosalia area?

Bajaboy - 3-30-2009 at 12:41 PM

Well, I'll rephrase my question...How is this happening just around the bend from a military outpost? While I'm not discrediting the stories, I am in disbelief that the authorities can't put an end to the problem. Something is missing here....

yellowtail67 - 3-30-2009 at 12:56 PM

Catavina to GN is still a long stretch of road no matter what way it is sliced or diced!

flyfishinPam - 3-30-2009 at 01:01 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by shari
I appreciate this thread as many many locals here travel regularly between here and ensenada where we have family members. That is one lonely stretch of road...perfect place for carjackings and not many cops at all...it is the extreme southern point of Ensenada county and somewhat forgotten. There have always been problems there but mostly mexicans were targeted...many mexicans travel with wads of cash and hold ups are more common than you think.
I am very concerned as sirenita may be travelling this stretch and as a result of this thread, I will warn her and others to, not to stop for a pee...or anything else for that matter.
Because it hit the papers, there IS something going on...good thing they got some of the bad guys but sounds like there are some still lurking out there so be on guard.

How about bus transportation to Asuncion? I am still planning getting up there pretty soon to celebrate but don't trust my cars to make it up there. I usually go to La Paz via bus now. Bus may be the safest way but on second thought that's that padre amare movie... just kiddin.

amelia - 3-30-2009 at 01:40 PM

I drive down from Northern California every November towing a trailer to go Kayaking in BOLA with family and friends. Each year has gotten scarier than the last and I skipped it for the first time last year. I need my Baja fix and have been planning already to go down this year. I've been convincing myself that the situation is just US media hype but this thread is a reality check. The stretch of road in question has always been in question and I'm totally reconsidering the trip again. Ahhhhhhh damn banditos: mad: :mad:

[Edited on 3-30-2009 by amelia]

flyfishinPam - 3-30-2009 at 01:50 PM

i would say just do it but now we need to travel in caravans to protect each other as I would think the bandidos prefer lone vehicles. aye se fue la libertad :fire:

DENNIS - 3-30-2009 at 02:56 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Dave

I'd rather get jacked than spend eternity behind some silly caravan.

Well, that's just it, Dave. If you're in it, you arn't behind it. Put it on cruise and start poppin' tops.

DianaT - 3-30-2009 at 03:21 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by flyfishinPam
i would say just do it but now we need to travel in caravans to protect each other as I would think the bandidos prefer lone vehicles. aye se fue la libertad :fire:

For as often as we go back and forth, that just wouldn't work for us---but it won't stop us from going---carefully.

BTW---there is no bus service to Bahia Asuncion. It only goes to Vizcaino and then you need to have other arrangments.

Bajahowodd - 3-30-2009 at 04:03 PM

But, it wasn't Dennis' story.

oladulce - 3-30-2009 at 04:16 PM

The govenor of BCS and Fonatur have big plans for the development of tourism in the San Juanico area and paving the 27 mile dirt road from La Purisima to SJ was their first step. The road is about half-way completed and it's funny that I haven't spoken with any local folks who are excited about it's completion.

I thought they'd be delighted to be able to get in to" town" (Cd.Const or Insurgentes) without enduring the mega- washboard; their cars would last longer, their tires would go farther, and prices for things like building materials might decline.

But all the folks I've spoken to are concerned about the same thing- if it's easier for them to get out of the village, it will be easier for the malos to come in to the village. We've heard it enough times now to believe there must be something to their concerns.

The local cop even shakes his head and says "No bueno. Too easy for the Mickey Mouse to get to the pueblo". I finally figured out that Mickey Mouse was his term for "ratones", or thieves.

His opinion is that San Carlos/ Constitución is a hotbed of bad stuff and bad people and he feels that the stretch crappy washboard has been what's kept them at bay so far.

I've never heard of problems on the 50 mile stretch of deserted pavement between Insurgentes and La Purisima, but it's the same scenario as Shari described - long stretches of desolate highway between the banks in Guerrero Negro and outlying remote villages. Lots of people are traveling back to their pueblos with wads of cash to last them for their day to day needs.

It's what everybody I know does, and what we had planned to do upon retirement. Now that we're preparing to live full time in the Baja Boonies, this topic is a huge concern.

Thank you Chris for starting this topic, and thanks Dennis for reporting the Pabellon incident.

shari - 3-30-2009 at 04:22 PM

Pam...we will come and get you in Vizcaino!
That stretch of road between GN and El Rosario is a lonely place and the issue is that there just arent any cops on it...or very very very few and far far between. I am sure they carjack in the daytime as that is when folks are coming from the bank with cold cash...not many people drive at night unless it's an emergency. I was surprised we hadnt heard about this rash of crime but it sounds like it is recent and targeted mexicanos. I just cant believe it is random...I think they know who they want somehow...are set up...that the bad guys have some advance knowledge of who they want to target....which is why mi esposo ALWAYS insists on not telling ANYONE when and where you are travelling to...you just never know who is listening or who will tell whom.
It doesnt matter if this occurs close to the checkpoint...as you could see from the non reaction the potential victims got from the military...it is just not their jurisdiction....they dont care if you are staggering drunk and driving as long as they dont find drugs or guns they dont care....perhaps their spanish wasnt adequate to explain what had just occured to them so the military didnt understand...but I am disappointed that this incident didnt get reported to the cops with a good description of the vehicle and men. I shall keep my ears open to see if indeed this gang has been caught or at least stopped holding up vehicles....but remember, this can happen anywhere in baja.

Wiles - 3-30-2009 at 04:49 PM

Quote:

I pushed my truck as hard as I could, and then a little bit more........................ My wife was looking back and could see the passenger had a rifle between his legs, and that they were the same two guys from the camp ground. We were in a race for our lives.

While hauling burro up and down and around tight curves, this guys wife was able to turn around and spot a rifle between a guys legs in the vehicle behind them?? Call me crazy, but she must have x-ray vision.

These are very serious incidents and should be taken into consideration when traveling. Having said that, similar incidents have occured from time to time since the opening of the Baja 1 highway. Never like to hear about it but, nothing new here.

Any reports of bicycle hijacks?? :lol:

Bajahowodd - 3-30-2009 at 04:51 PM

If you can't get a convoy together, how about creating one with a bus? Obviously, in front and not behind. But if you don't mind traveling their speed, and keep them in your rear view mirror, it would seem to me to just about solve the problem.

BajaGringo - 3-30-2009 at 05:12 PM

I have heard of some folks who do that very same thing with trucks. They sacrifice time but feel safer...

robrt8 - 3-30-2009 at 06:57 PM

I do this all the time. Trucks, cars, buses.. helps at night.
To each his own with the caravans.

bajachris - 3-30-2009 at 07:24 PM

Here are the specifics that we got when inquiring about these incident with the original source who was returning from San Juanico.

re the carjackings, i dont really know the details, just what we heard over coffee in GN, but i did just read in the paper they found another drug boat off of rosario (punta baja)... eeesh...

>Questions: Are Mexicans or Americans being car jacked?
i heard mexicans

> What's the MO? Are they dressed as cops?
no - not dressed as cops, but a cop was involved

> What do they do with the people?
tie them up with duct tape and leave them in the desert

> I'm kind of assuming they might be Mexican, because most Americans
> wouldn't be missed for quite a while??
not sure - i heard a mexican father and son -

> Who told you all this?
the lady at the bus stop in GN that always gives us coffee

bajachris - 3-30-2009 at 07:33 PM

We asked for verification from people we know in Bahia de Los Angeles and this is what we were told.

"We have all been down with terrible colds, at the same time! not fun. We have heard stories from folks in town about the car jackings going on. Today just heard some were caught and 3 were from here! Our neighbors who are either coming or going are doing so in a caravan. Also patrol has been stepped up around that area.

Too bad you now have to make other plans for spring break. Probably a good thing as you don't want to chance it, it's not worth it.

The police here didn't say how many people were involved but there is or was a woman also. No confirmation on how many jacking there has been and/or reports of injuries or deaths.......new arrivals to bahia say there is military points set-up in various areas."

bajachris - 3-30-2009 at 07:38 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Sharksbaja

Quote:

Originally posted by bajachris

Quote:

Originally posted by Sharksbaja
If the story isn't greatly exagerrated I'll eat my freakin' truck.

Let us know how that truck passes. :spingrin:

I'm not breaking out the hot sauce yet!

----
Dennis, wouldn't it have been prudent to give us the heads up then?

[Edited on 3-30-2009 by Sharksbaja]

Maybe he was afraid of being ridiculed by folks in this forum. Nah, that would never happen

bajachris - 3-30-2009 at 07:51 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Sharksbaja
Let me get this straight. We, the Nomads with all our connections and eyeballs and ears are just now privy to something that directly affects our well-being.

Gee thanks Baja. :mad:

Sorry again Chris.

Better go buy some syrup of epicac now......

I have not seen anything about this on any site that I normally visit before heading down and I had not heard any of this when I was in the area in January. I meet with the Punta Prieta Police at that time and they mentioned that someone had robbed the Pemex outside of GN but no mention of this.

Clearly if people are caravaning to BOLA the word is out. I think that because we often hear the same incidents rehashed over and over by the media we have become complacent when new information is available and quick to dismiss it.

Thanks for the apology Sharksbaja. Enjoy your meal.

DianaT - 3-30-2009 at 07:55 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajahowodd
If you can't get a convoy together, how about creating one with a bus? Obviously, in front and not behind. But if you don't mind traveling their speed, and keep them in your rear view mirror, it would seem to me to just about solve the problem.

Anyone know what time the faster first class bus leaves San Quintin headed south?

shari - 3-30-2009 at 09:06 PM

this is the type of thing that Nomad is great for...up to date info...I had not heard about this until today and heard it first here then started asking around...Juan just told me that he was told there were about 40 vehicles assaulted...
Hope you have a good digestive system Sharkie...ditto on the enjoy your meal...buen provecho.

DENNIS - 3-30-2009 at 09:50 PM

Sounds as though the news of this is being stiffled in the U.S. press. Scarey thought, isn't it. Most surely they've heard something.

Sharksbaja - 3-30-2009 at 09:53 PM

Ah. it's just a bunch of Mexicans getting robbed. Who cares......

(sarcasm)

DENNIS - 3-30-2009 at 09:54 PM

Corky........Check your U2U.

bajachris - 3-30-2009 at 10:03 PM

I've taken the bus many times home North from Rosallita turn off. Most of the time it's not so bad, except when the AC fails, then you open the roof hatches. Movies in Spanish. I see why the drivers crash as they change CD's while driving. There was a fatal bus crash with a driver falling asleep at night. It costs about $NP600 and you have to transfer buses in Ensenada and get on the Tijuana Linea. The crossing for the boarder stop changes every time I've been on the bus. Last time people were freaking out thinking they were taking us somewhere else, and not to the boarder. The food sucks at the bus stop in El Rosario. It's more relaxing than driving. However, the buses sometimes don't have seat belts and sometimes the bathroom breaks.

We could never keep up with the buses. Too darn fast!

By the way, BajaChris is my husband and I writing this. He's the logical one, I'm the emotional one.

Sharksbaja - 3-30-2009 at 10:12 PM

I know, some of the bus drivers go way too fast.

So what's your name? Oh, and welcome!

bajachris - 3-30-2009 at 10:13 PM

Christine

And thanks!

DENNIS - 3-30-2009 at 10:23 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajachris
Christine

Chris and Christine? Do we dare asking about the Aloha print matching beach outfits?

Just kiddin'. Welcome to BajaNomad.

bajachris - 3-30-2009 at 10:27 PM

Chris is short for Christine. Husband wishes to remain anonymous.

Funny guy!

Bajahowodd - 3-30-2009 at 10:35 PM

Shari- still not clear as to the time frame. 40 vehicles in Two days, two weeks, two months, two years? There is a difference between a crime and a crime wave. And I'm sorry to say, but Im still just a tad skeptical of our new friend. The smell test is still awaiting results.

bajachris - 3-30-2009 at 10:41 PM

All your new friend can tell you is everything was cool at the end of January according to the Punta Prieta Police and Rancho Mora. So at most 2 months.

Bajahowodd - 3-30-2009 at 11:23 PM

Having a problem here with the Punta Prieta police. I thought Punta Prieta was a bus stop on highway one.

The Gull - 3-31-2009 at 05:08 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajaboy

Quote:

So these banditos were going to car jack this couple just around the corner from the military stop?

Clearly, the driver needed a six pack of Coke in the plastic bottles to shake up and toss out the window. Those of us experienced Nomads know that THIS METHOD chases off all nature of bad guys when racing at 100 miles/hour thru lonbg stretches of road around Vizcaino.

Remember the last time we read this fable with the guy hiding behind a tree with a cell phone??

bajachris - 3-31-2009 at 09:36 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajahowodd
Having a problem here with the Punta Prieta police. I thought Punta Prieta was a bus stop on highway one.

Sounds like the problem is you are unfamiliar with the area. The bus does stop there but that is not the only thing in Punta Prieta. The police in Punta Prieta patrol everything between BOLA turn off and Jesus Maria. The Comandante is Martin and Theodora is one of the deputies. Nice guys.

It sounds like some you need a little advice on how to travel in Mex. One of the best things I can tell you to is learn spanish and get to know the lady who runs your favorite taco stand, talk to the people who work at the Pemex, get to know the folks who run the camp grounds and hotels you frequent. These relationships will make your trips more rewarding and could save your life.

BTW, so far the only one of you who has been man enough to apologize for their personal attacks on our credibility is Sharks. Thanks Sharks. What's wrong with the rest of you?

:fire:

oxxo - 3-31-2009 at 09:37 AM

No one has any first hand experience? This "news" comes from the mexican lady at the bus stop who is passing out coffee?

I am always observant when driving the length of Baja and I will continue to be so.........but this rumor is not going to prevent me from driving in Baja until there are some substantiated facts.

Yes, I will have bottles of coke in the van to ward off any wouldbe carjackers! Take that you Pepsi drinker!

TonyC - 3-31-2009 at 09:51 AM

BajaChris, (Christine) and also Dennis, thank you for the heads up advice.

"Maybe he was afraid of being ridiculed by folks in this forum. Nah, that would never happen".......... No way this would ever happen here.

Bajaboy - 3-31-2009 at 10:01 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by oxxo
No one has any first hand experience? This "news" comes from the mexican lady at the bus stop who is passing out coffee?

I am always observant when driving the length of Baja and I will continue to be so.........but this rumor is not going to prevent me from driving in Baja until there are some substantiated facts.

Yes, I will have bottles of coke in the van to ward off any wouldbe carjackers! Take that you Pepsi drinker!

I had a lady tell me that walking barefoot would cause me to catch a cold, too.

While I appreciate the heads-up about the possibility, I am not going to blindly believe the hearsay info. Bajachris sorry that your feathers got ruffled but I agree with Oxxo here.

David K - 3-31-2009 at 10:07 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajachris

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajahowodd
Having a problem here with the Punta Prieta police. I thought Punta Prieta was a bus stop on highway one.

Hi BajaChris,

Remember that this is a forum which is open to comments from anyone who wants to chime in. Don't let the negative posters chase you off, because there are ten+ times more positive minded folks who appreciate what you do here... they just don't always say so.

The problem I think some might have with your first interaction on this forum is that your first posts are of such bad news... and news most here have never heard reported before by the 'established' Nomads who live or travel frequently in Baja.

I am sure that if your first postings here were of a trip report or your own introduction of what you like about Baja, where you like to go, etc. then a later post of such terror on Highway One wouldn't be so hard to swallow.

On other forums, there is a person who only posts doom and gloom news about Baja as if he/she is trying to scare away visitors... So, anybody who begins there Baja story telling with doom and gloom, and little else, won't find a lot of compassion here.

Reporting bad events is as important as good events... it is only that the good events in Baja far outweigh the bad, to those of us who actualy go there more than once a year. I look forward to reading what you like about Baja, too!

Thanks for understanding this and welcome to Nomad!

shari - 3-31-2009 at 10:27 AM

Let me tell you...the lady at the coffee stand at the bus depot is probably bettter informed than anyone...she hears all the bus drivers stories all the time...her and the gas station attendants are good sources of information. I do not know the time frame either but will keep asking around. This is NOT a hoax people...just because gringos havent been targeted doesnt mean it isnt true. It is very worrysome to the people who live in our area.

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