![](data:image/svg+xml;charset=utf-8,<svg height="360" width="640" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" version="1.1"/>)
The FBI said in a statement on Monday that it is seeking public assistance to find Marine reservist Armando Torres III, who was kidnapped in La Barranca, Tamaulipas, Mexico on May 14.
1. Armando Torres III Was Kidnapped at Gunpoint While Visiting His Family in Mexico
![](data:image/svg+xml;charset=utf-8,<svg height="808" width="640" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" version="1.1"/>)
Armando Torres (FBI)
On the day he was kidnapped, Torres drove across the International Port of Entry Bridge at Progresso, Texas to visit his father’s ranch in Mexico. Shortly after he arrived, armed gunmen stormed the ranch and he was taken by force. He has not been seen since.
2. His Father and Uncle Were Also Taken
US Marine, relatives kidnapped from Mexico border ranch nbcnews.to/Zr4uAk
— NBC News (@NBCNews) June 4, 2013
According to the statement, Torres was with his father, Armando Torres II, and his uncle, Salvador Torres, who were also taken. His father and uncle are both Mexican citizens.
3. Torres Was a U.S. Marine and Veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom
Torres served with the U.S. Marines in Africa and in a combat zone during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He is currently in the individual ready reserve.
4. The Kidnapping May Be Related to Drug Trafficking
US Marine Kidnapped Near Mexican Border, Drug Cartel Possibly Involved – inq.cm/11po6FQ
— Inquisitr News (@theinquisitr) June 4, 2013
His sister, Cristina Torres, 24, told The Monitor that the family believes that the kidnapping was related to a land dispute with drug traffickers who want the property because of its proximity to the border.
5. The FBI is Actively Investigating
An investigation is underway in Mexico and the FBI said it was also conducting an “international kidnapping investigation and is vigorously pursuing all investigative leads.” They also ask that anyone who has any information to contact the FBI-Brownsville Resident Agency Office.