Updated

A band of drug lords has turned the Mexican border town of Nuevo Laredo, just yards away from Texas, into lawless territory.

Not only are cocaine, marijuana and amphetamines funneled through this town, but the gang has taken on law enforcement, killing the last two elected police chiefs. The latest one lasted only six hours in office.

Fox News' Steve Harrigan rode on patrol with the newest chief, who stresses that a positive outlook is better protection than a suit of armor.

Last Friday, the streets of Nuevo Laredo became a war zone, with gun battles forcing residents to run for their lives.

Now the criminals have taken to kidnapping; they've snatched 41 Americans in the past year.

Click in the box near the top of this story to watch a report by FOX News' Steve Harrigan. Click HERE to read Steve Harrigan's blog.