Threat Messages and Anti-American Graffiti Stir Concern in Los Cabos

Los Cabos, Mexico — One week after banners allegedly linked to drug cartels appeared in San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas with threats aimed at the FBI director and U.S. citizens, new incidents of anti-foreigner graffiti have surfaced in the upscale neighborhood of El Tezal, sparking unease among local residents and expatriates.

Neighbors reported spray-painted messages containing racist and xenophobic language, targeting foreign residents and visitors — primarily Americans and Europeans. The graffiti appeared in multiple locations early Tuesday, October 14, including a pedestrian bridge near Costco and a private wall within the area. While city maintenance crews quickly removed one of the messages, at least one more remained visible by midday.

Local authorities were notified of the vandalism, which is being investigated as an act of hate and incitement. Police have not yet identified the individuals responsible.

Residents expressed alarm and disappointment over the incident, emphasizing that such behavior runs counter to the welcoming character of the Los Cabos community.

“This is not who we are,” said one long-time local resident. “Los Cabos thrives on tourism and international friendship. We depend on that.”

The incident follows a recent controversy that drew attention from U.S. media outlets after two narco-style banners were found last week in the region, containing explicit threats against U.S. law enforcement officials and citizens. Although the Mexican government swiftly denied the authenticity of those messages, the reports fueled growing concerns about safety and anti-American sentiment in one of Mexico’s most visited tourist destinations.

Sociologists and urban analysts point out that the problem may be linked to a rising social backlash against “gentrification.” In coastal areas like Los Cabos, the influx of affluent foreign residents has sharply driven up housing prices, rents, and local service costs, displacing long-time locals and widening social divides.

While most residents and business leaders insist that Los Cabos remains safe and open to visitors, the graffiti and recent threats underscore a fragile tension beneath the surface of the region’s booming tourism economy.

Local authorities have pledged to increase patrols and surveillance in El Tezal and other high-density neighborhoods popular with expatriates. For now, the community hopes that swift action — and clear communication — can prevent a deeper rift in a city long known for its hospitality.