The post-September spiral in Baja

As a result of the securityprecautions taken by the US after September11, Baja has experienced enormous economicdislocation, affecting both legitimate andunderworld businesses. Increased vigilancealong the border has complicated efforts totraffic undocumented immigrants and drugs.One of the consequences has been anincrease in other illegal operations on theMexican side of the border such askidnapping, robbery, and local distributionof drugs.