18 Suspects Face Charges After Extortion and Drug Trafficking Operation in Bacalar

Bacalar, Quintana Roo — Eighteen people face criminal charges including extortion and drug trafficking after a coordinated law enforcement operation in the community of Limones, Bacalar. Judges ordered the suspects to stand trial following a review of evidence presented by prosecutors.

The Quintana Roo State Prosecutor’s Office announced that 16 defendants face charges for intentional injuries, extortion, property damage, disobedience, and resisting arrest. Two additional suspects face drug trafficking charges for small-scale distribution.

Authorities made the arrests during coordinated actions by an interagency group that included executing search warrants at 15 properties in the area.

Among those detained was Geydi Esmeralda “N,” from whom authorities seized marijuana and methamphetamine. Another suspect, René “N,” was arrested in possession of marijuana and cocaine. Both face drug trafficking charges and will remain in preventive detention throughout their legal proceedings.

Preliminary investigations indicate Geydi Esmeralda “N” allegedly encouraged residents to block Federal Highway 307 between Chetumal and Felipe Carrillo Puerto and promoted vehicle burnings.

Prosecutors presented evidence that led to formal charges against additional suspects including Edita “N,” Esmeralda Arisbel “N,” Mayra Joana “N,” Nancy “N,” Nadia Yulissa “N,” Judith Noemí “N,” Esthefanía “N,” Nayeli Guadalupe “N,” Paola Cristina “N,” Saulo “N,” Andrea Guadalupe “N,” Yanin Anaís “N,” María Graciela “N,” and Gerardo “N.” These individuals face charges of intentional injuries, extortion, disobedience, and resisting arrest.

Authorities noted this marks the second time Gerardo “N” faces formal charges, as he was previously prosecuted for drug crimes and remained in preventive detention.

A judge also ordered Nereyda María “N” to stand trial for property damage and imposed preventive detention during the judicial process.

Regarding allegations of attacking transportation routes related to the highway blockade, the court declined jurisdiction and referred the case to federal authorities since Federal Highway 307 falls under federal jurisdiction.