Chinese Soccer Fans Robbed at Gunpoint After Arriving in Mexico for World Cup Opener

Two Chinese soccer fans were robbed at gunpoint shortly after arriving in Mexico to attend the FIFA World Cup opening match, losing their belongings in the attack, Hangzhou-based Dushikuaibao reported over the weekend.

The two men, identified only by their surnames Li and Wang, landed in Mexico City on the evening of June 10 and were heading from the airport to their hotel when they were targeted by armed robbers.

Li told reporters that the robbery occurred around 7:20pm, less than an hour after their flight arrived.

"Our local driver had just picked us up. About 1 kilometer from the airport, we were robbed at gunpoint," Li said. "One person carried out the robbery while another waited on a motorcycle. They pointed a gun at our heads, took our belongings and fled."

The robbers initially appeared interested in stealing the men's watches. However, when Li instinctively clutched his bag, the attackers grabbed it instead. The bag contained his passport and most of his personal belongings, leaving him with only his cellphone.

Wang was less affected. He had placed his bag beneath his feet, and the helmet-wearing robbers apparently failed to notice it. He lost only a wristwatch.

The pair reported the incident to local police after reaching their hotel. Li alleged that several officers arrived at the scene but immediately demanded money.

"We gave them 10,000 pesos (US$580), and then they disappeared," he said.

Shaken by the ordeal, the two men also contacted China's 12308 overseas consular protection hotline. The report was quickly relayed to the Chinese Embassy in Mexico, which contacted the victims, offered assistance and raised concerns with Mexican authorities, urging them to investigate the case and ensure the safety of Chinese citizens.

"The embassy kept following up on the case, which made us feel much more reassured," Wang said.

The two men were able to board a flight home less than 48 hours after the robbery. Mexican authorities later informed the Chinese embassy that one of the two suspects had been arrested and that the investigation remains ongoing, Xinhua news agency reported today.

Li said the experience had left a lasting impression.

"I think this will be my last trip to Mexico," he said. "After watching the World Cup, I'm going home."