Mexican Scouts: security plan after campers attack

MEXICO CITY – Mexico's equivalent of the Boy Scouts says it is recommending that scouts not go on hikes in small groups, and avoid about 11 wooded areas on the outskirts of Mexico City following last week's brutal rape-robbery attack on church youth-group campers.

Prosecutors have said last week's attack was not related to organized crime or drug gangs. Common criminals, robbers and rapists have targeted hikers and campers on the city's outskirts in the past.

No scouts were involved in the attack.

But the Scouts Association of Mexico said it coordinated a recent hike with local police departments. The scout statement said future hikes should ask for police protection if necessary.

Five women and girls were raped or sexually abused during the hours-long July 13 attack on the campers.