Kidnapping

Abstract

This chapter presents a first attempt at a methodologically sound history of the crime of kidnapping—in particular, its evolution from the 1970s to today in Mexico and specifically in Mexico City, from existing only as a political tool used by radical groups to promote their struggle or raise funds for their cause, to a crime that is simply economical in nature. Kidnapping has become a crime that affects mainly the working and middle classes as opposed to its traditional wealthy victims. The chapter analyses the evolution of kidnapping gangs and also how the government responded to them via a diverse set of policies. It also describes the gangs which took part in this crime.