Mexico: Attempted Vehicle Robbery on Highway 45D in Guanajuato State (Near Apaseo El Grande)

● On Saturday, October 5, around 12:00 noon, an attempted vehicle robbery occurred near Apaseo El Grande on Highway 45D in Guanajuato State.

1. Incident Overview

At around 12:00 noon on Saturday, October 5, two Japanese women (permanent residents) were driving an SUV on the highway from Salamanca to Querétaro when a white vehicle (without license plates) pulled up alongside them, signaling them to stop. The suspects’ vehicle stopped in front of the women’s car. At the same time, a motorcycle carrying a man and a woman approached from behind. Two men exited the suspects’ vehicle and threatened the women with what appeared to be a gun. However, noticing that the area behind their vehicle was clear, the driver reversed and managed to escape while the suspects were distracted. The incident occurred about five minutes from the toll station at the Querétaro State border. After passing the toll station, the suspects did not pursue the women further.

2. Precautionary Measures

Although security forces are patrolling the area, vehicle robberies in similar locations remain common. Please exercise caution, especially when driving near state borders.

Although the victims in this case managed to escape, such situations carry significant risks. Japanese residents are urged to prioritize their safety in the event of an incident.

• (1) Vehicle robberies can occur even in broad daylight. Recently, there have been frequent reports of robberies on Highway 45D between Salamanca and the Querétaro State border. When traveling between states, carefully consider your route and travel times.
• (2) Most vehicle robberies involve firearms or roadblocks, and due to the high speeds on highways, any attempt to flee could lead to serious accidents. If escape seems difficult, do not attempt it and comply with the suspects’ instructions.
• (3) In the event of a robbery, do not resist and comply with the suspects’ demands. Avoid actions that may provoke the suspects, such as staring at or pursuing them. (Resistance increases the risk of harm to life and body. Generally, surrendering valuables without resistance lowers this risk. Stay calm and follow the suspects’ instructions.)