Authorities Investigate “Mano Negra” for Expanding Real Estate Fraud Scheme in Riviera Maya

Cancún, Q. Roo – September 28, 2025 — The Quintana Roo State Attorney General’s Office has opened an investigation into allegations of real estate fraud in Puerto Aventuras, where a group led by Rafael Muñoz, known as “Mano Negra”, is accused of orchestrating property dispossession schemes.

According to official reports, Muñoz is working in coordination with Haydee Verónica Nava Vázquez, originally from Ecatepec, State of Mexico, and her son, Kevin Hadlay. Together, they are accused of attempting to seize properties through fraudulent rental contracts backed by false testimony. Hadlay, who presents himself as a “premium real estate advisor” in the area, allegedly identifies vulnerable properties while Nava Vázquez arranges the contracts under Muñoz’s direction.

Authorities say the group has refused to provide proof of rent payments in ongoing disputes, and several eviction cases are already in process. In one Puerto Aventuras property, the accused reportedly engaged in “fraude procesal” (procedural fraud), ignoring eviction notices to delay legal action.

The allegations extend beyond Puerto Aventuras. Complaints filed in other cities cite a disputed property in Cancún called “Sol y Luna,” allegedly used as bait to lure investors into questionable projects with false guarantees.

In Puerto Aventuras, neighbors say the group has escalated their activities with threats and attempted extortion, creating fear within the community. The complaints also accuse the Puerto Aventuras administration of omissions: despite being aware of ongoing dispossession lawsuits, they allegedly allowed the accused to enter as if they were legitimate property owners without verifying their legal status. In addition, they reportedly failed to regulate access passes granted by complicit neighbors, which allowed the group and their associates to enter freely and without restrictions.

Similar cases have been reported on social media in Tulum and Playa del Carmen, with users suggesting that individuals involved in real estate fraud may have ties to organized crime.

The Attorney General’s Office confirmed that Muñoz has previously served prison time for crimes similar to those he is accused of today. Authorities are urging anyone who believes they have been defrauded by Rafael Muñoz, alias “Mano Negra”, to come forward and file a formal complaint.