Four US citizens have been kidnapped in a case of mistaken identity, according to a US official. The incident occurred in Matamoros, Mexico, where the victims were targeted unintentionally, states a report by Fox News. The four Americans were reportedly assaulted before being kidnapped.

The Daily Beast reports that the kidnapping was the result of the victims being mistaken as members of a rival cartel. However, it remains unclear which cartel was responsible for the kidnapping. The victims’ identities have not been released, but they are said to be from Texas.

CNN reports that the victims are still missing, and efforts are underway to find them. US officials have provided support to Mexican authorities in the search. The incident highlights the dangers of traveling to certain areas in Mexico, where drug-related violence and kidnappings are not uncommon.

US citizens have been warned to exercise caution when traveling to certain areas in Mexico, and to keep a low profile when possible. It is also advised to stay in well-lit and populated areas, and to avoid traveling alone or after dark.

The search for the missing Americans continues, and authorities are calling on anyone with information on the incident to come forward.