Jeep stolen on Michoacan coast

As I stopped, I saw another young man running from the brush to my left. There was wide clear space on that side of the road with a narrow road or track leading into the bush.

This is a tried and true ambush/robbery tactic in Mexico (and, Central America: I've seen them all). The other tactic is for 2 guys to drag a 2x4 x 10 with a rope attached to both ends across the street in front of traffic (this would be no problem running over IF the 2x4 hasn't got 60+ 4-inch nails protruding out of it!). Another one is for a pick-up truck load of hombres sitting in the bed of the truck with automatic weapons swerve n front of the victim's vehicle, raise their weapons and signal you to stop (sometimes with one firing off a few rounds into the air, for dramatic effect).

The way you describe the incident, I can only deduce that these guys knew this sector of road intimately, and have done this genre of robbery many times precisely where you were robbed. If it were me,I would have gone to the State Judicial Police, and would have pointed out that these guys appear to have their shtick well rehearsed. The strength of follow up would be directly correlated to the possible police involvement in this scheme...

Glad you were not hurt; your calm demeanor and cool sense got you out safe and sound. These incidents you encounter will make you a stronger person, better to deal with similar situations (whether they happen in Mexico or, the USA). Count it as a learning experience...

For other Mexico travelers: mark this route in your GPSs as a "no go" dangerous route asap.

S-