ACAPULCO, MEXICO (CNN) -- The mayor of Acapulco is apologizing for downplaying the gang rape of six female Spanish tourists. He originally called what happened regrettable, but said it could've happened anywhere in the world.
Police have stepped up security at the beach bungalow where the attack happened while they investigate.
Masked gunmen entered the sea front vacation bungalow from the beach around 2 a.m. What happened next is horrific.
Six women in their 20's and their male companions were tied up with their own cell phone cords and bikinis. The women were raped and the men were helpless to stop it from happening. Acapulco Mayor Luis Walton says, "It's a delicate situation - he says - but we will apply the full weight of the law against those responsible"
All the victims were tourists from spain. One woman from Mexico was left unharmed.
Some neighbors say they heard music coming from the beach house late that night suggesting there may have been a party.
With no gate, fence or security, the house was easily entered and invaded from the beach. the shocking crime has struck worry and fear in those who know and love this popular vacation destination.
The attack comes as tens of thousands of teen and 20-something American spring-breakers prepare to descend on Acapulco for the annual rite of sun, beaches and parties.
The city of Acapulco has been an oasis of relative calm in the Mexican state of Guerrero, a place hard hit by drug related violence.
The U.S. state department recommends deferring non-essential travel to the northwestern and southern portions of the state and even in Acapulco itself.
The best advice: "exercise caution and stay within tourist areas."