In Mexico City's swank Colonia Nápoles one evening last week, a string of expensive cars were parked outside Señora Rosa Rodriguez' mansion. Inside, a score of well-heeled, guests were gathered around card tables, sipping drinks and wagering 100-peso notes at canasta, poker and baccarat.
Suddenly, plainclothesmen burst through the front door and windows, crying "Nobody move!" They swept up cards, chips and cash as evidence, herded together 20 prisoners, including a Mexican general, a wealthy Texan and several of the brightest lights of capital society. When the courts opened next day, the...