Gunmen rape 6 tourists near Acapulco

A pack of masked and hooded gunmen broke into a beach bungalow on the outskirts of Acapulco and raped six women tourists after tying up a group of men with cell phone cables and bikini straps, CNN reported, citing officials.

Another woman, also in the rented home, was spared in the 2 a.m. Monday morning attack just east of the troubled Mexican resort city, where a spate of recent violence has tarnished the reputation of what was once a top spring break destination.

The victims were Spanish nationals, ranging in age from 20 to 34. They are now under the protection of Mexican authorities.

Acapulco Mayor Luis Walton condemned the attack during a Tuesday news conference and vowed to apprehend those responsible as world attention homed in on Pacific port city.

"We know that it's very unfortunate what has happened, but it happens anywhere in the world," said Acapulco Mayor Luis Walton.

The mayor later apologized for his comment, saying he "very much regrets the misinterpretation of his words, which were never meant to harm the victims, nor minimize the facts."