11-07-2025
He closed his store after years of threats. Why Mexico's extortion problem is getting worse
MEXICO CITY — It started with a phone call to a men's clothing store in the heart of Mexico City's historic center. 'I need you to put together 10,000 pesos ($500) for me weekly, or else we'll have to do something,' the voice said.
The owner hung up and didn't answer the phone again for days. But when another call came the following week, in a surge of courage and indignation the owner told the caller he wouldn't pay, that the money demanded would have been half the store's daily income. 'Well, prepare to face the consequences ,' the voice said.
