First of all, the cartels know who missionaries are and will generally leave them alone. Similar to gangs and other groups. There was a rebel army in the jungle where I served and I saw them walking around with machine guns. They know that if they mess with missionaries—especially foreign missionaries—they’re going to be in more trouble.

Second, are rules. A lot of crime likely happens at night when missionaries should be back home. As long as they are in areas they’re supposed to be in at the right time of day/night, and not engaging in activities they shouldn’t be, they’ll be fine.