The usually vibrant city of Cancún has been ravaged by a surge in violence, forcing local businesses to shut down due to threats from organized crime. The Riviera Maya’s economic hub is now plagued with fear, as merchants and entrepreneurs abandon their shops and homes in the face of rising insecurity.
Once synonymous with a tropical paradise and thriving economy, Cancún and its neighboring city Playa del Carmen are struggling to maintain their reputation as top tourist destinations. Organized crime has taken hold in various areas of Quintana Roo, extorting “floor fees” from businesses that dare not comply. Those who resist or refuse to pay face devastating consequences, including threats, arson attacks, and armed assaults.
Business owners have spoken out about the growing fear of living and working in Cancún, with many attributing the crisis to a lack of effective law enforcement. One businesswoman from Cancún reported receiving an intimidating phone call allegedly from members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, warning her that she was “located” and would face retaliation if she didn’t cooperate.
“This was enough for me to decide to close my business permanently,” she said, echoing the sentiments of many others who have been driven out by the escalating violence.
In Playa del Carmen, entire families have fled their homes and businesses in fear of being targeted. One local businesswoman recounted how she had to leave her home and job overnight, leaving behind everything she had built over years.
The economic impact of the crisis is dire, with a significant decline in tourist numbers reported by service providers – up to 25% fewer visitors than usual. The loss of revenue has left many business owners on the brink of collapse, while others have been forced to abandon their homes and livelihoods altogether.
Citizens are hesitant to report crimes due to fear of reprisals, creating a culture of silence that is exacerbating the crisis. Distrust in authorities has also led to a lack of formal complaints, as those affected believe it’s pointless seeking help from institutions that may be complicit in the problem.
“This is why we prefer not to report it,” said one resident, “we’re afraid they’ll know where we live.”
In response to the growing insecurity, many businesses have been forced to operate discreetly, with some even closing their doors altogether. The city’s usually bustling streets are now eerily quiet, a testament to the devastating impact of organized crime on Cancún and its economy.
Businesspeople and residents alike are demanding urgent action from the authorities to combat the growing threat of violence and restore security to the region. Without effective intervention, Mexico’s most important tourist destinations risk facing an international reputation crisis that could be difficult to reverse.
“It’s clear that there is no frontal attack,” a merchant from the city center laments. “Cancún is no longer what it used to be. It has been lost for many of us.”
Source: TV Azteca
