**Efforts to Penalize “Extortion Fees” on Par with Kidnapping in Baja California**
Authorities in Baja California are pushing for “extortion fees,” a prevalent yet underreported crime, to be penalized as severely as kidnapping. Leopoldo Tizoc Aguilar Durán, the State Secretary of Citizen Security, emphasized the lack of sufficient complaints about this crime, which complicates efforts to address and understand the current situation in the region.
Despite an increase in reports, the number of formal complaints remains low, Aguilar Durán noted, hindering law enforcement capabilities. “We are working closely with the Attorney General’s Office to propose legislation equating this crime with kidnapping,” he stated. This crime often goes unreported, causing challenges for authorities who cannot solely rely on wait-and-see approaches for complaints to be filed.
Aguilar Durán also mentioned that some criminal groups, previously known for kidnapping, have shifted their focus to extortion activities. In Tijuana, small businesses are paying up to 2,000 pesos weekly due to such extortion demands, highlighting the pervasive nature of the problem.
The state security official did not confirm the involvement of drug cartels in these activities, pointing out the difficulty of identifying the organizations responsible due to limited information. “The problem is that anyone can claim to be someone threatening, and without evidence, it’s easier for them to intimidate citizens,” he added.
Authorities stress the importance of victims coming forward and reporting incidents via channels such as 911. Aguilar Durán pointed out, “The number of complaints is significantly lower than the reality reflects. There’s no specific type of victim or business being targeted; unfortunately, many diverse businesses are affected.”
**Secondary Article: Increasing Call for Public Awareness and Reporting**
In addition to legislative efforts, there’s a growing need for public awareness about the importance of reporting crimes related to extortion fees. Local government and non-government organizations are encouraged to launch campaigns that inform business owners and residents about the available resources and support for those who fall victim to this crime.
The focus is on breaking the cycle of fear that prevents many victims from coming forward. By creating a safer environment for reporting and ensuring anonymity, authorities hope to gather more data, allowing for a clearer understanding and more effective combat of the issue.
Moreover, community workshops and information sessions are suggested as proactive measures to educate the public on recognizing signs of extortion and the steps to take when confronted with such demands. Only through increased reporting and collective community action can authorities hope to tackle extortion and ensure safety and justice for all residents and business owners in Baja California.