The once-thriving tourism hub is now reeling under the grip of organized crime and a wave of violence that has forced local businesses to shut down, leaving entrepreneurs living in fear for their lives.
The economic powerhouse of the Mexican Caribbean, Quintana Roo state, home to Cancún and Playa del Carmen, was once synonymous with unbridled growth, opportunities, and sustained tourism. However, today it faces a bleak outlook due to an escalation of violence that has left hundreds of businesses severely impacted.
Merchants in both cities are living in terror after being threatened by organized crime groups, including the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), over failure to comply with extortion demands or ‘floor fees.’ The consequences have been severe, ranging from intimidation calls to armed attacks and arson.
A local businesswoman who opted to close her shop permanently shared a chilling experience of receiving an intimidating phone call allegedly from CJNG members. “We decided to shut down the curtains and remove all belongings,” she said. “It was a painful decision but a necessary one.”
Similar cases have been reported in Playa del Carmen, where entire families have fled their homes and businesses due to fear of attacks. One long-time resident recounted how she had to leave behind her home, job, and stability overnight with her family.
Residents express concern about the rapid deterioration of security in these once peaceful areas, which have long relied on tourism as a key source of revenue. Business owners point out that not only has the environment changed but also the economy.
“I’ve considered selling my house and leaving the country,” lamented another local businesswoman. “I no longer feel safe even at home.”
This widespread perception of insecurity is reflected in dwindling tourism numbers, with service providers reporting a 25% decrease in tourist influx. This alarming situation threatens to cripple the economies of both destinations.
Citizens are too afraid to report these crimes due to fear of reprisals. Violence has not only forced business owners out but also silenced their voices, leaving them reluctant to file formal complaints.
A lack of effective response from authorities has further exacerbated the crisis. Despite increased violence, citizens do not perceive a clear strategy to combat organized crime on the part of the government. The police presence has failed to deter criminal groups, and announced operations have yielded little in terms of tangible results for merchants and citizens.
“It’s clear that there is no frontal attack,” said one merchant from the city center with resignation. “Cancún is no longer what it used to be. It has been lost for many of us.”
Unless authorities take urgent action, Mexico’s most important tourist destinations could face a severe international, economic, and social reputational crisis that would be difficult to reverse.
Source: TV Azteca
