(dpa) - The Mexico City government announced plans Monday to introduce a cash-reward system to combat kidnappings.
The announcement follows the kidnapping and murder of a 14-year- old boy, which along with other cases has generated a massive wave of criticism against the federal and state governments' response to the kidnappings.
The rewards will be a combination of government and private money and managed by Mexico City's Citizens' Council of Public Security and Justice Provision, an organization comprising civilians outside political and government life.
"What we are interested in with the rewards system is that citizens give the authorities information on places, modus operandi and some individuals who could be involved in this activity," said Council president Meyer Klip.
"The Council will receive tips, based on the proven trust it inspires in citizens. The information will then be forwarded to the relevant areas of the city's attorney general's Office," Klip added.
Kidnappings in Mexico have increased over the past two years, according to citizens' groups and police. In the past year alone there have been more than 500 kidnappings in the city.