Mexican ‘murder resort’ once a Brit favourite now controlled by El Chapo’s gang

A once thriving Mexican beach resort that was a popular spot for holidaying Brits is now better known as one of the most dangerous places in the world due to the bloodthirsty drug cartels that control it.

Located on Mexico's Pacific Coast, sunkissed Acapulco has been unofficially ruled by the infamous Sinaloa Cartel for more than 20 years.

Previously controlled by Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman before his life imprisonment, the cartel is now spearheaded by his son Ovidio Guzmán-López.

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And from the looks of his rap sheet, Ovidio is just as evil as his beloved father.

US officials have put a $5million (£4.12m) bounty on his head for drug trafficking as well committing a string of murders including informants, a drug trafficker, and a popular Mexican singer who had refused to perform at his wedding.

Due to the corrosive influence of the cartel in the resort, violent crime is commonplace in Acapulco.

Speaking to Brookings, one prominent businessman described how life in the city was bearable if you followed their rules but hinted at what would happen if you didn't.

He said: "Sinaloa, Caro Quintero’s faction, now controls the top extortion in Acapulco.

"But it’s much better than before. Straightforward, easy.

"You don’t have to pay weekly and to men brandishing their weapons in your face; just once every three months now, and it’s calm, you don’t see the weapons.

"Now, for small businesses, street vendors, who have to pay to Acapulco’s many small [criminal] groups, life is still very difficult.”

Currently, the US advises against all travel to the area due to the high risk of kidnapping.

Meanwhile, the official UK travel advice warns any tourists to be 'extra vigilant'.

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It states: "There have been several instances of armed crime both within and outside tourist areas in Acapulco.

"If possible, travel by air if you are visiting a major tourist destination in Guerrero. Due to an increase in violent crime, you should be extra vigilant in Acapulco and surrounding areas."

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