1.   Kidnapping has become a virtual industry in Mexico in recent years, second only to Colombia in magnitude.

2.   Kidnapping has become the crime of choice because the punishment is significantly less than for drug trafficking.

3.   For the field commanders who control large swaths of Chechnya, kidnapping has become the main means of financing arsenals and armies.

4.   In this lawless environment, kidnapping has become one of the most lucrative businesses in Chechnya.

5.   In some countries, kidnapping has become an epidemic that limits tourism and business.

6.   Kidnapping for ransom became a growth industry in Chechnya after Russian troops pulled out at the end of the last war.

7.   Kidnapping for ransom became a huge industry in Chechnya after Russian troops pulled out at the end of the last war.

8.   Some international humanitarian groups have pulled out their foreign employees as kidnapping has become more commonplace.

9.   Kidnapping has become a veritable industry in Colombia, with one person abducted and held for ransom every six hours, according to a report by a victims association.