150+ Government Lands Illegally Occupied in Cozumel

Cozumel, Quintana Roo — More than 150 properties owned by the Quintana Roo state government and managed by the Secretariat for Territorial and Urban Development (SEDETUS) have been illegally occupied in the municipality of Cozumel, according to officials. The lands, originally designated for housing assistance programs, remain vulnerable to invasion due to unpaid fees and incomplete construction.

Lack of Oversight Leads to Illegal Occupations

Genaro Sena Vidal, Director of Housing and Liaison for SEDETUS in Cozumel, stated that the absence of proper monitoring after land distribution has contributed to widespread illegal occupations. Some plots show only minimal clearing, while others already have unauthorized constructions.

"These invasions are classified as criminal offenses under the law," Sena Vidal said. "Cases with significant progress will now be addressed legally, particularly when rightful beneficiaries—who have completed the official transfer process—possess the documentation to reclaim their properties."

Preventive Measures and Ongoing Investigations

Authorities have taken steps to deter further invasions, including posting signs with legal property details on undeveloped lots outside urban zones. Sena Vidal noted that SEDETUS has successfully prevented some forced takeovers by engaging with those attempting to clear the land.

So far, officials have identified 152 invaded properties, but the full assessment of land ownership remains underway. Additionally, unpaid debts linked to these properties in Cozumel total 44 million pesos, with some delinquent accounts in neighborhoods like San Miguel 1 and 2 dating back over 40 years.

The state government continues to investigate the extent of the invasions and plans to release further details soon.