‘Each Trip Gets Worse’: Belizean Businessman Details Extortion

Robert McClaren Jr, a Belizean car dealer, has shared alarming details about the escalating dangers of traveling through Mexico for business. In a widely circulated video, McClaren recounted a harrowing experience where he and a group of nine Belizeans were allegedly extorted by corrupt officials and armed civilians. The incident began when a flat tire on one of their vehicles attracted unwanted attention. Despite no accident occurring, transport security officers demanded 50,000 pesos, threatening to confiscate their cars and detain the group. McClaren described how the situation intensified as officers began seizing car keys, searching vehicles, and attempting to take his passport and cash. Fearing for their safety, the group created a scene, which eventually led to the intervention of Mexican police, who returned their documents and allowed them to leave. McClaren revealed that this was just one of many perilous encounters he has faced during his frequent trips to Mexico. He highlighted the prevalence of unofficial checkpoints manned by armed civilians, where travelers are forced to pay bribes to proceed. Despite the ordeal, McClaren remains undeterred, viewing the experience as a lesson to better prepare for future trips. He emphasized the need for increased awareness and caution for those traveling through the region.