The incident happened to Wang Kun and Li Zhe upon their arrival in Mexico, as they were preparing to watch the match between the host team and South Africa on 11/6.
According to Wang, their oto from Benito Juarez International Airport to the city center was intercepted by two masked men wearing helmets. The suspects used guns to overpower the victims and took their passports, luggage, laptops, cash, and expensive watches.
"This is the first time in my life I've been robbed, and had a gun pointed at my head," Wang stated in a video posted on social media. He believes the robbers might have followed them from the airport currency exchange, noticing his luxury Rolex watch.
Following the incident, the two tourists reported it to local police and contacted the emergency hotline of the Chinese Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China.
"Embassy staff listened and were very sympathetic to our situation," Wang said.
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Fans outside Mexico City stadium before the World Cup 2026 Group A match between Mexico and South Africa on 11/6. *Alfredo Estrella* |
The incident quickly gained attention on online platforms in China. Many expressed sympathy for the two tourists, while some commented that carrying numerous valuables while traveling abroad carries significant risks.
On 12/6, the Chinese Embassy in Mexico confirmed the robbery of its two citizens on its official WeChat account. The embassy requested Mexico to promptly apprehend the perpetrators and enhance safety measures for Chinese citizens.
The embassy also advised tourists to limit carrying large amounts of cash, jewelry, or valuables when traveling.
One day later, the Chinese diplomatic mission announced that Mexican authorities had arrested one suspect. The case remains under investigation. According to Chinese media, Wang and Li have safely returned to China.
In March, ahead of the tournament, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that authorities deployed security forces in the three World Cup 2026 host cities: Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey. The objective is to ensure security for matches and tourist areas, which are expected to attract many visitors during the event.
The head of Mexico's World Cup coordination center reported that over 99,000 security personnel are participating in the operation, including approximately 20,000 military soldiers, 55,000 police officers, and private security forces.
Mexico also plans to mobilize about 2,500 military and civilian vehicles, 24 aircraft, and an anti-drone system. The Mexican government is coordinating with US and Canadian security agencies to implement joint protection measures for the tournament.
Tuan Anh (Source: Channelnewsasia)
