Violence against civilians has been extensively researched within the field of conflict studies, with scholars like Kalyvas (2006) emphasizing the strategic nature of victimization by armed factions. However, existing literature often overlooks violence beyond civil war settings, prompting this thesis to focus on organized crime's impact on civilian victimization, particularly migrants. Incorporating theory from the field of criminology, the thesis explores how territorial control by criminal actors influences migrant victimization. The study centres on Mexico and collects detailed 2021 data on migrant violence triangulated from various sources. Through a quantitative approach, employing OLS regressions, the analysis examines the interplay between cartel control over territory and violence against people on the move. Contrary to the expectations set forth in the theoretical framework, the findings suggest that higher cartel control correlates with a decrease in violence against migrants. The thesis concludes by emphasizing the significance of extending research beyond civil war contexts and highlights the necessity for further investigation into migrant victimization.