Extortion gangs hit full range of Mexico's economy

From mom-and-pop businesses to mid-size construction projects, almost every segment of the Mexican economy has been subjected to extortion schemes.

Extortionists have shut entire school systems, crippled real estate developments, driven legions of entrepreneurs into hiding or out of the country.

And although it is not considered a violent crime, violence readily engulfs victims: When a casino in the industrial city of Monterrey failed to pay off extortionists last year, the place was firebombed, killing 52 people.



Source: Los Angeles Times