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Check FAQAbout Alasdair
Alasdair Baverstock is an award-winning foreign correspondent and video journalist with over a decade of experience reporting from Mexico City, with extensive contacts throughout Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. His journalism career is distinguished by a keen focus on Latin America, with a special interest in the dynamics of international relations, trade, and climate change. Baverstock's reporting has spanned a variety of critical issues, from natural disasters and technological advancements to global migration crises. In addition to his written work, Baverstock is the co-founder of BavFilm, a video production company, showcasing his proficiency in video and still shooting, editing, and documentary filmmaking. He owns top-of-the-range video and photo equipment and is adept at delivering live hits through platforms like Skype or the TVU mobile app. His expertise extends to environmental journalism, where he has reported on catastrophic events such as the wildfires in Maui, and technological trends, including the rise of electric mobility and the expansion of financial technology in Latin America. Baverstock's contributions to journalism have been recognized across various media outlets, including CGTN, BBC, Fox News, MSNBC, TRT World, MailOnline, and ITV. His reporting not only covers the economic and political aspects of his stories but also delves into cultural and social issues.
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Tim Shaddock and Bella. The Australian sailor and his dog were rescued after more than two months adrift in the Pacific Ocean
Tim Shaddock, an Australian sailor, and his dog Bella were rescued after being adrift for over two months in the Pacific Ocean. They were saved by a crew of tuna fishermen. Shaddock, reunited with Bella on Mexico's Manzanillo beach, expresses his joy in seeing his dog again in an exclusive interview with The Times. Despite the ordeal, Shaddock is ready for a new adventure and has decided to rehome Bella, showing his emotional attachment and the impact of their shared experience.
Oppo smartphones find success in Mexico
The article discusses China's position as the largest smartphone market in the world, with sales reaching over $119 billion in 2023. It also highlights the success of Chinese technology manufacturers in expanding their market overseas, particularly in Mexico and Latin America. The article promotes CGTN's exclusive content and encourages readers to subscribe to 'The China Report' newsletter.
China sees success in Mexican auto industry
The article discusses the prominence of China as the largest auto market globally, both in terms of sales and production. It highlights the expansion of Chinese auto brands beyond Asia, with a particular focus on their success in Mexico. The article implies that the growth of Chinese auto brands in international markets is a notable trend in the automotive industry.
China Home Life Expo held in Mexico
The article reports on the participation of Chinese vendors at the China Home Life Expo in Mexico City, where they aimed to penetrate the Mexican market. It also mentions the recent efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between China and Mexico, highlighted by the visit of Mexico's Foreign Minister to Beijing. The article promotes CGTN's exclusive content and encourages readers to subscribe to The China Report newsletter.
Huawei’s annual cloud summit highlights importance of Latin America
Huawei's annual cloud summit has underscored the importance of Latin America, and particularly Mexico, as a key market for the Chinese technology company. Huawei's operations in Mexico have contributed to the creation of over 6,500 indirect jobs, highlighting the company's economic impact in the region. The report on Huawei's influence in Latin America comes from CGTN's Alasdair Baverstock, who provides insights into the company's activities and their significance. Additional exclusive content on this topic is available on CGTN Now, and further information can be accessed by subscribing to CGTN's weekly newsletter, The China Report.
Latin America coping with impacts of global warming
The article discusses the ongoing COP28 summit where global leaders are addressing climate change and pledging to alter their practices to combat its effects. It highlights the current impacts of a changing global climate, particularly the issue of displacement in Latin America. The report is by CGTN's Alasdair Baverstock, and the article also promotes CGTN's exclusive content and weekly newsletter, The China Report.
Fintech Expansion in Latin America
The article discusses the expansion of financial technology, or 'fintech', in Latin America, highlighting its impact on banking and transaction methods. The report is from Mexico City and is presented by CGTN's journalist Alasdair Baverstock. The article also promotes CGTN's exclusive content available on CGTN Now and encourages readers to subscribe to their weekly newsletter, The China Report.
Chinese Businesses Seek New Opportunities at Mexico-China Expo
The article discusses the significant presence of Chinese businesses at the annual Mexico-China Expo, highlighting the strengthening cross-Pacific business ties between China and Mexico. Over 200 Chinese companies traveled to Mexico with the aim of securing new business deals. The expo attracted around 20,000 visitors, indicating a high level of interest and potential for economic collaboration between the two countries. CGTN's journalist Alasdair Baverstock reported on the event, emphasizing its importance for international trade relations.
APEC 2023 Highlights Economic Ties Between Western Pacific and Latin America
The article discusses the focus of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2023 on fostering economic ties between countries in the Western Pacific and Latin American nations along the Pacific coast. It highlights the strengthening relationship between China and Mexico as a key example of this growing economic cooperation. The report is by Alasdair Baverstock for CGTN, which also promotes its exclusive content available on CGTN Now and encourages readers to subscribe to The China Report newsletter.
Southern California sees worsening impacts from climate change
Officials from China and the U.S. are engaged in climate discussions in California, coinciding with the approach of two significant global events, APEC and COP28. Although the details of their meetings are not public, the relevance of their dialogue is underscored by the visible effects of climate change in the vicinity. The outcomes of these talks could have implications not only locally but also across the Pacific, highlighting the global nature of climate policy and its impacts.
APEC Summit Focuses on Economic Policy, Trade Deal Not a Priority
The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit is underway in San Francisco, with the United States expressing its goal to promote a 'free, fair and open economic policy agenda.' However, the article suggests that the ambition for a trans-Pacific trade agreement, which has been a long-standing goal of APEC, might not be a priority at this year's summit. CGTN's journalist Alasdair Baverstock provides coverage of the event.
U.S. and China cooperate on climate change
Chinese and U.S. officials are currently engaged in discussions in California with a focus on climate change. These talks are scheduled to continue until Tuesday and are aimed at preparing for two upcoming major global events. The first event is the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, which will be held next week in San Francisco. The second event is the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, set to open at the end of the month in Dubai.
China, U.S. officials to discuss climate change ahead of key international meetings
Officials from China and the U.S. are set to meet in California to discuss climate change and other topics ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders' meeting and the UN's Climate Change Conference (COP28). The report emphasizes the significance of the upcoming discussions between the world's two largest economies on tackling climate change. The report is by Alasdair Baverstock for CGTN, and it also promotes CGTN's exclusive content and weekly newsletter, The China Report.
China, U.S. climate envoys meet at Sunnylands ahead of COP28
Chief climate envoys from China and the United States are convening at the Sunnylands Center and Gardens in California to discuss collaborative measures to address climate change. This meeting is a precursor to the COP28 conference, which is scheduled to start on November 30. The discussions are particularly significant as they involve the two largest economies in the world, both of which have a substantial impact on the global climate crisis. CGTN's journalist Alasdair Baverstock is reporting on the agenda and the potential outcomes of this bilateral engagement.
Acapulco struggles to rebuild after devastating Hurricane Otis
The article reports on the aftermath of a devastating hurricane that struck Mexico's Pacific Coast, focusing on the beach resort of Acapulco. The city, which relies heavily on tourism for its economy, is in the process of recovery and reconstruction. The report emphasizes the importance of these efforts for Acapulco's future. CGTN's journalist Alasdair Baverstock provides the coverage of the situation. The article also promotes CGTN's exclusive content and encourages readers to subscribe to The China Report newsletter.
Hurricane Otis causes devastation in Mexico with 27 confirmed deaths
The article reports on the aftermath of Hurricane Otis, which struck Mexico's Pacific Coast near Acapulco as a Category 5 storm, the strongest to impact that region. The hurricane resulted in 27 confirmed deaths, with four individuals reported missing. The storm caused extensive damage, leaving residents and tourists without essential services. The report is provided by Alasdair Baverstock of CGTN, highlighting the severe consequences faced by the affected areas.
Acapulco survivor's crisis
Hurricane Otis has caused significant damage to Mexico's Pacific coast, particularly affecting the beach resort town of Acapulco. The natural disaster has resulted in at least 27 fatalities. Local residents are currently facing the challenge of rebuilding and recovering from the destruction caused by the hurricane.
Historic hurricane Otis strikes Mexico’s Pacific Coast
The article reports on the aftermath of Hurricane Otis, which struck Mexico's Pacific Coast near Acapulco as a Category 5 storm, the strongest to impact that region. The hurricane resulted in 27 confirmed deaths, with four individuals reported missing. The storm caused extensive damage and disrupted essential services, leaving both residents and tourists in a state of distress. The report is provided by Alasdair Baverstock of CGTN, which also offers additional exclusive content and a weekly newsletter called The China Report.
China helps El Salvador build a new national library
The article discusses the impact of China's Belt and Road Initiative on Central America, with a focus on El Salvador. It highlights the various infrastructure projects that are underway as a result of this initiative. The article also promotes exclusive content available on CGTN Now and encourages readers to subscribe to The China Report, a weekly newsletter.
Chinese engineers working to improve freight logistics in Honduras
The article discusses the partnership between China and Central American countries within the framework of China's Global Belt and Road Initiative. It highlights the collaboration on projects that aim to enhance national development and international participation for Central American nations. One specific project mentioned is a freight logistics initiative in Honduras. The article also promotes CGTN's exclusive content and encourages readers to subscribe to 'The China Report' newsletter for more information.
China’s Belt and Road Initiative reshaping Central America
The article discusses the impact of China's Belt and Road Initiative on Central America, with a focus on El Salvador. It highlights the various infrastructure projects that are underway as part of this initiative. The report is by Alasdair Baverstock for CGTN, which also offers exclusive content on CGTN Now and a weekly newsletter called The China Report.
Venezuelan migrants find hope in Texas
The article reports on the ongoing situation at the Mexico-U.S. border where thousands of migrants arrive daily, hoping to seek asylum in the United States. The focus is on what happens to these migrants after they reach the border. The report is by Alasdair Baverstock for CGTN, which also encourages readers to check out exclusive content on CGTN Now and to subscribe to their weekly newsletter, The China Report.
Migrants Face Increased Danger Along Route to U.S.
The article discusses the humanitarian crisis faced by migrants attempting to reach the United States, particularly the dangers they encounter on their journey to the U.S.-Mexico border. CGTN's journalist Alasdair Baverstock reports from the border to shed light on the situation. The article also promotes CGTN's exclusive content and encourages readers to subscribe to The China Report newsletter.
Migration Crisis at America's Southern Border
The article discusses the ongoing migration crisis at America's southern border, where a record number of migrants are arriving daily. Local officials are exploring various measures to manage the situation. Despite these efforts, migrants are determined to continue their journey to the United States. The report highlights the challenges faced by both the migrants and the authorities. CGTN's Alasdair Baverstock provides a report from the border, and the article also promotes CGTN's exclusive content and weekly newsletter, The China Report.
U.S.-Mexico border faces migration challenges
The article discusses the ongoing migration crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border, where there has been a record number of refugees entering the United States seeking asylum. The report suggests that American authorities, who are trying to deter this migration, might receive additional support from Mexico in their efforts. The journalist, Alasdair Baverstock, provides a report for CGTN, and the article also promotes CGTN's exclusive content and encourages readers to subscribe to their weekly newsletter, The China Report.
BYD launches affordable EV in Mexico
The article discusses the rise of electric mobility, with a focus on China's market, which leads in electric vehicle (EV) sales. In 2023, China sold eight million EVs, a figure that is more than double the sales of any other region in the world. The report highlights that Chinese EV technology is not only dominating the local market but is also expanding to other global markets. The report is by CGTN's Alasdair Baverstock, and the article also promotes CGTN's exclusive content and weekly newsletter, The China Report.
China's largest trade expo attracts Latin American interest
The article discusses the growing trade relations between China and Latin America and the Caribbean, highlighting the significant bilateral trade volume which amounted to $449 billion last year. It emphasizes the role of trade fairs in promoting and marketing businesses between China and these regions. The report mentions China's largest expo that focuses on fostering connections with businesses across the Pacific. The journalist, Alasdair Baverstock, provides this report for CGTN, which also promotes its exclusive content on CGTN Now and its weekly newsletter, The China Report.
China and Mexico celebrate a decade of strategic partnership
The article discusses the ten-year anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Mexico, which was established during President Xi Jinping's visit to Mexico in 2013. The Chinese ambassador to Mexico recently spoke about this partnership at Mexico's leading public university. The report is provided by Alasdair Baverstock from CGTN, highlighting the ongoing relationship and collaboration between the two nations.
Opportunities for smaller enterprises at USMCA
The article discusses the impact of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) on North American trade, highlighting that it has generated nearly two trillion dollars a year. It emphasizes the benefits that small and medium-sized businesses have experienced due to the agreement. However, it also points out that there are further opportunities for these businesses to increase their role in trade. The report is provided by Alasdair Baverstock from Mexico City, representing the media outlet CGTN.
China joins Mexico's Independence Day celebrations
Mexico celebrated its 213th Independence Day on September 16, with this year's festivities including participation from China. A contingent from the People's Liberation Army (PLA) marched alongside the Mexican military during the annual parade. Journalist Alasdair Baverstock reported on the event for CGTN, highlighting the international aspect of the celebrations. Viewers are encouraged to check out exclusive content on CGTN Now and to subscribe to The China Report weekly newsletter.
Rescuing discarded food to help fight hunger in Mexico
The article discusses the United Nations General Assembly's efforts to improve global food security, with a particular focus on reducing food waste in Mexico. It highlights the paradox of food wastage in a country where hunger is also a significant issue. The article also promotes the outlet's exclusive content available on CGTN Now and encourages readers to subscribe to 'The China Report' newsletter.
Mexico City's Public Transportation Boosted by Chinese Electric Mobility Tech
Mexico City is set to receive an upgrade to its public transportation system with the introduction of Chinese electric mobility technology. A recent event highlighted the collaboration between Mexico and China, indicating a significant development in Mexico City's public transport offerings. The report suggests that the new technology is en route from China to Mexico, signaling a step forward in the adoption of electric vehicles in public transportation. CGTN's Alasdair Baverstock provided the report, and additional exclusive content is available on CGTN Now, along with an invitation to subscribe to The China Report newsletter.
UNGA will address the global migration crisis in September
The article discusses the pressing issue of global migration, highlighting that over 100 million people around the world are forcibly displaced. It emphasizes the significance of the topic as it is set to be a key point of discussion in the upcoming United Nations General Assembly. The outcomes of this discourse are crucial as they have the potential to affect millions of vulnerable individuals who are part of the migration crisis.
Lahaina Community Leaders Address Child Trauma After Devastating Wildfire
The article discusses the aftermath of the deadliest U.S. wildfire in over a century, which affected the Hawaiian town of Lahaina. It focuses on the impact of the disaster on the local children, particularly in relation to their education, as most students are not returning to school. Community leaders are taking steps to help alleviate the trauma experienced by the children. The report is by Alasdair Baverstock for CGTN, which also offers exclusive content on CGTN Now and a weekly newsletter called The China Report.
Hawaii Wildfires: Maui Rebuilding Efforts Await Amid Federal Aid
The article discusses the aftermath of the wildfires that hit parts of Maui, Hawaii, in August. While the fires have been put out, the reconstruction efforts are still pending. The U.S. Biden administration has pledged $95 million to aid the recovery process. The report emphasizes the importance of the local community in the rebuilding phase. The journalist, Alasdair Baverstock, provides this update and directs readers to CGTN's platform for more exclusive content and to subscribe to their weekly newsletter, The China Report.
Lahaina Wildfires: Rebuilding Amid Economic Uncertainty
The article discusses the aftermath of wildfires in the town of Lahaina on Maui. It focuses on the economic challenges that residents face as they consider rebuilding their homes and lives. The situation presents a dilemma, particularly for those with and without insurance, as the cost of rebuilding could potentially lead to financial ruin. CGTN’s journalist Alasdair Baverstock reports from the scene in Lahaina, providing insights into the struggles of the local community.
Maui town left in ruins after devastating wildfires
The article reports on the devastating wildfires that struck the island of Maui, particularly focusing on the destruction in the town of Kula. The fires left several miles of territory in ruins, with neighborhoods in Kula being completely destroyed. The report suggests that while Lahaina has been the center of media attention, Kula has also suffered significant damage. CGTN's journalist Alasdair Baverstock provides further coverage on the situation.
Secondary disaster in Hawaii: Toxic aftermath of Lahaina fires
The article discusses the aftermath of fires in Lahaina, Hawaii, highlighting the emergence of a secondary disaster due to the release of toxic chemicals from burned materials such as electronics, vehicles, and batteries. The concern is that these noxious chemicals may pose long-term health risks to the local population. The report is by Alasdair Baverstock for CGTN, which also encourages readers to check out exclusive content on CGTN Now and to subscribe to their weekly newsletter, The China Report.
Some buildings in Lahaina were spared from Maui's catastrophic wildfire and hurricane winds
The article discusses the aftermath of a catastrophic wildfire and hurricane that affected the Lahaina area in Maui. It highlights the resilience of the residents who are finding hope in the survival of some buildings amidst the widespread destruction. The community is in the process of rebuilding and recovering from the natural disasters. The report is by Alasdair Baverstock for CGTN, which also encourages readers to check out exclusive content on CGTN Now and to subscribe to their weekly newsletter, The China Report.
Latest updates from Lahaina's Red Zone post-wildfire
Alasdair Baverstock, a journalist from CGTN, reports on the aftermath of a wildfire that hit the community of Lahaina on the island of Maui, Hawaii. It has been over two weeks since the disaster, and the residents are still coping with the significant loss and damage caused by the fire. The report provides an update from the Red Zone, the most affected area in Lahaina, highlighting the devastation to both the community and the landscape.
Hawaii's Lahaina Town Begins Healing After Devastating Wildfire
The article discusses the aftermath of a wildfire in Lahaina, a historic town in Hawaii. It highlights the significant impact the disaster will have on the area for the foreseeable future. The report also touches on the community's recovery efforts, which are being bolstered by the island's indigenous traditions. The journalist, Alasdair Baverstock, provides this report for CGTN, and the article promotes CGTN's exclusive content and a weekly newsletter called The China Report.
U.S.-Mexico trade tensions
The United States has intensified a trade conflict with Mexico following Mexico's ban on imports of genetically modified corn in June, citing health concerns. This escalation could potentially damage the diplomatic ties between the two countries, which are both parties to the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement. The agreement has been beneficial to all involved countries, and the ongoing dispute over corn imports may have negative implications for the relationship within the region.
Huawei invests in Latin American startups
The article discusses the high failure rate of tech startups, with an estimated 90% not succeeding. It highlights that while the tech sector is often associated with immense wealth due to the success of companies like Apple, Google, and Facebook, the reality is that most tech startups do not achieve similar outcomes. The focus of the article is on a program led by a Chinese tech giant that is designed to increase the chances of success for tech startups in Latin America.
Growing Cross-Pacific Trade Between Mexico and China
The article discusses the growing trade relations between Mexico and China, highlighting the role of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in this development. It suggests that there is potential for even closer commercial ties as both nations aim to expand their global market presence. The report is provided by Alasdair Baverstock from CGTN, indicating an interest in the economic interactions across the Pacific and the opportunities it may present for the involved parties.
Mexico's President to Sign Agreement with Tortilla Makers on Non-GMO Corn, Set New Tariffs
The President of Mexico has declared an upcoming agreement with tortilla producers to use only non-genetically-modified white corn in their products. Additionally, the president plans to implement new tariffs on corn imports. This move is seen as a way to protect and promote traditional farming practices, particularly those that have been passed down through generations in regions where corn is indigenous. The report suggests that reverting to ancestral farming techniques could be a key strategy for local farmers to boost their crop yields. Alasdair Baverstock from CGTN has covered this story, providing insights into the implications of the president's announcement for agriculture and trade policy in Mexico.
World Day against Trafficking in Persons: Are we doing enough to combat modern-day slavery?
The article highlights the United Nations World Day against Trafficking in Persons on July 30, which is aimed at raising awareness about modern-day slavery, including forced prostitution and labor. It mentions that the U.S. State Department estimates over 27 million victims of human trafficking globally. The piece suggests that there may be concerns about whether enough is being done to address this issue. The report is by Alasdair Baverstock for CGTN, which also promotes its exclusive content on CGTN Now and its weekly newsletter, The China Report.
China-Mexico Trade Relations Expand
The article discusses the increasing trade between China and Mexico, highlighting that exports from China to Mexico grew by 28 percent last year. It notes that China has become Mexico's second-largest import partner, trailing only behind the United States. The report also mentions that Chinese businesses are actively seeking cooperation with vendors in Mexico City to expand their market reach. CGTN's journalist Alasdair Baverstock provides insights into this growing economic relationship.
Chinese businesses seek cooperation with Mexico City vendors
The article discusses the increasing Cross-Pacific trade between China and Mexico, highlighting the significant growth in exports from China to Mexico, which saw a 28 percent increase last year. It notes that China has become Mexico's second-largest import partner, trailing only behind the United States. The report by CGTN's Alasdair Baverstock focuses on the efforts of Chinese businesses to expand their market reach by seeking cooperation with vendors in Mexico City.
Alasdair's Complete Coverage of the 2017 Mexico City Earthquake
A series on Illegal immigration in the USA, and the families affected by it. Told from the perspective of a program which reunites the parents of undocumented migrants in America with the parents they left behind in Mexico.
Cabo Pulmo: The Mexican Fishing Village That Became a world-class eco-tourism destination
Mexican Families Selling Their Daughters Into Slavery
Durango: The City Addicted To Crystal Meth.
Alasdair's Live Reel
Opium Farming in the Heart of Mexico — Alasdair Baverstock
The article discusses the opium fields in the high Mexican sierras, where the crop is hidden among avocado and peach plots. Arturo Lopez, a former government foresting engineer turned opium farmer, details the region's dependence on opium farming, with 90% of the local population involved in the trade. Guerrero state, where the farming takes place, is the world's third-largest producer of opium, fueling the US heroin epidemic. The article traces the history of opium in North America, the rise of Mexican 'black tar' heroin, and the dominance of the Sinaloa Cartel in the drug trade. Despite the dangers and government eradication efforts, local farmers see no alternative to opium cultivation for their livelihood. The article also touches on the idea of legalizing opium production, which faces skepticism due to the global surplus of medical opiates and the potential reduction in profits for farmers.
TRT World: Mexico's Opium Wars rage in the remote sierras of Guerrero State
US-expats retiring illegally to Mexico
Displaced by drug violence, indigenous Mexicans yearn for home
The article discusses the plight of the Triqui indigenous tribe, who were forced to flee their homeland in Oaxaca, Mexico, due to drug-related violence. Many have settled in Baja California, forming the largest Triqui community in the world. Despite escaping violence, they face poverty, crime, and a struggle to preserve their culture in New Copala. The community governs itself and tries to maintain traditions, but the younger generation is caught in a cycle of crime and hopelessness. The Triqui have been involved in strikes and have petitioned the government for help, but with little response. The Sinaloa drug cartel's influence is evident in the area, and the lack of police presence has allowed gang rule to take hold.
There have been disappearances, beatings and breakouts of disease there
The University of Veracruz, located in Xalapa, Mexico, is currently facing a crisis with a series of violent incidents, including beatings at a student party by armed men, kidnappings, and outbreaks of diseases like dengue fever and chikungunya. The violence began two months ago and has led to a significant drop in student attendance, with only 78% returning for the new academic year. The local police have been criticized for their slow response and lack of action, even when provided with information that could lead to the capture of criminals. The university's financial situation is also dire, with state government debt affecting the institution's ability to pay its staff, leading to strikes and the departure of top academics.
Family living next to El Chapo’s escape tunnel tell of neighbour ‘El Pastor’
Lorenzo Esquivel and Maria Esther Salgado, residents near the Altiplano jail in Mexico, recounted how a man known as 'El Pastor' moved into a nearby property six months prior to the escape of drug lord Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman. 'El Pastor' claimed to be building a house, but the couple noticed no significant changes to the property despite frequent deliveries of construction materials. On the day of El Chapo's escape, luxury vehicles were seen at the property, and the following morning, they left with 'El Pastor's' cars. Guzman's escape involved a mile-long tunnel leading to the building where 'El Pastor' resided. Cutzamala Constructions is mentioned as working on a water reservoir project around the prison, but there is confusion about the project's specifics and how the prison's security failed to detect the tunnel construction.
The Lavish Tombs of Mexico's Notorious Drug Lords
The article discusses the extravagant mausoleums of Mexico's most notorious drug lords, highlighting the immense wealth and influence they held even in death. The Sinaloa Cartel, based in Culiacan, Sinaloa, is mentioned as Mexico's largest and most powerful mafia. The article details the lavish final resting places of Manuel Torres Felix, Arturo Beltran Leyva, Ignacio Coronel, Ines Calderon, Hector Luis Palma Salazar, and Amado Carrillo. These mausoleums, costing hundreds of thousands of dollars, are equipped with luxury amenities such as air conditioning, wi-fi, and state-of-the-art security systems. The article also touches on the violent lives these individuals led, their control over drug trafficking markets, and their notorious acts of revenge and brutality.
Mexican-born criminals who grow up in the US and then deported back to Mexico
The article discusses the plight of Mexican-born criminals deported from the United States who end up in Tijuana's Zona Norte, a district rife with drugs, violence, and poverty. Many of these deportees, like Andres Herrera, were raised in the U.S. and struggle with drug addiction and the lack of legal employment opportunities in Mexico. The Sinaloa Cartel's influence has exacerbated the area's crime rate. Local businesses and government programs are overwhelmed by the influx of deportees, many of whom wish to return to the U.S. The article highlights the human consequences of deportation and the challenges faced by those who are sent back to a country they barely know.
Tortured and chained by her neck in a Mexican dry cleaners: The horrific story of a woman's two-year ordeal as a slave
Zunduri, a 22-year-old woman, endured two years of enslavement and torture at a Mexican dry cleaners owned by Leticia Molina Ochoa. She was forced to work 17 hours a day, chained by the neck, and suffered physical and psychological abuse. Zunduri was starved, burned, and beaten, leading to severe injuries and scars. She managed to escape when a chain was improperly fastened, and Ochoa, along with her sister, boyfriend, and daughters, now face charges of kidnapping and torture. Zunduri's story highlights the broader issue of slavery in Mexico, where over a quarter-million people are estimated to be in forced labor, surpassing the numbers in several other countries combined.
Cartel members keep exotic animals in their homes as a status symbol
Cedeño Bros circus in Mexico City is selling their exotic animals, including seven Siberian tigers, due to a new law banning performing animals. The circus owner, Armando Cedeño, has criticized the law and is open to selling to anyone, including drug cartel bosses, as they have received offers from private clients and middle-men. Mexican drug lords are known for keeping exotic animals as status symbols. The law, which came into effect in December 2014, has been criticized by circus owners who claim they cannot afford to keep non-working animals, and many may have to be euthanized. The government has not provided support for rehoming the animals. The ban has already led to the closure of over seventy circuses, and the future of over 2,000 animals is uncertain. Some circuses are adapting by using robotic animals, while animal rights groups continue to advocate for the welfare of circus animals.
Taken by storm: more extreme weather tours
The article discusses the phenomenon of Catatumbo lightning at Lake Maracaibo in Venezuela, which is known for the world's most frequent lightning. The author describes joining a tour led by Alan Highton, who specializes in lightning tourism. The tour includes wildlife watching and experiencing the intense lightning storms. The article also mentions the economic benefits for local communities and provides travel tips for Venezuela. Additionally, the article briefly covers other extreme weather tours around the world, including storm chasing in Tornado Alley in the United States, an art installation in New Mexico that attracts lightning, thunderstorm tours in Australia, and storm chasing ski tours in Canada.
Venezuela: piranha fishing in the Orinoco Delta
The article is a travelogue describing the author's experiences in Venezuela's Orinoco Delta. It begins with an anecdote about fishing for piranhas and then describes the lush jungle environment, the local wildlife, and the unique geography of the delta, which was named 'Little Venice' by the conquistadors. The author stayed at The Orinoco Queen, a small resort in the area, and details the local culture, including the influence of Simón Bolívar. The article also provides practical travel information, including flight options, tour packages, and tips for exchanging currency and dealing with the climate. Accommodation and restaurant recommendations are provided for Ciudad Bolívar and Caracas, along with advice on what to avoid when traveling in Venezuela.
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