A sophisticated crime ring operating in Cancún, Quintana Roo, has been dismantled by authorities after a series of arrests were made in connection with a massive scam involving the sale of nonexistent land and homes.
The group, led by Paulo “N” and comprised of four women, allegedly operated through a carefully structured narrative, claiming to manage properties through social programs linked to government agencies. However, an investigation has revealed that this was nothing more than a ruse designed to deceive unsuspecting homebuyers into parting with their money.
The scam relied on mass meetings held every Saturday, where those involved offered properties at prices significantly below market value. For example, apartments were being sold for 148,000 pesos and homes for 90,000 pesos. Payments were made partially in cash, under the pretext of covering paperwork or securing a spot within the “program.”
The large difference between the amounts requested and the market value made the proposal especially attractive to people with low incomes. However, authorities have since revealed that at least eight formal complaints have been filed against those involved, five of which include direct threats.
When some victims became suspicious or demanded advances, they received intimidating audio messages intended to discourage any attempts to file complaints. The voice messages were used as a tool of coercion to keep the fraud hidden and protect the group’s operations.
In addition to Paulo “N,” Dalia “N,” Yasuri Esmeralda “N,” Marlene Isabel “N,” and Sandra del Rocío “N” were arrested. These women were in charge of attracting new interested parties, processing requests, and maintaining the appearance of legality in the process.
According to preliminary estimates by authorities, more than 1,500 people allegedly gave money and documents to this organization, which operated without legal backing or any relationship with government agencies.
The investigation continues, and the five detainees remain in custody pending a determination of their legal status. The Prosecutor’s Office is gathering evidence and does not rule out the possibility that more victims will file complaints in the coming days.
Furthermore, an investigation is underway into whether there was any omission or complicity by public officials that could have facilitated the misuse of the names of federal programs in this fraudulent scheme.
Source: Diario de Yucatan
