Authorities Transfer Approximately 200 Inmates from Cancun Prison in Overnight Operation

Cancun, Quintana Roo — Authorities conducted a large-scale overnight security operation to transfer approximately 200 inmates, some considered high-risk, from the Cancun Social Reintegration Center (Cereso) to federal prisons and other state penitentiaries.

The operation began around 10:45 p.m. on Monday when three buses entered the prison located in Supermanzana 99. Minutes later, State Police patrols arrived to oversee the transfer process and prevent incidents.

Federal personnel from the Mexican Navy (SEMAR), the Mexican Army (SEDENA), and the National Guard also arrived to reinforce security inside and around the prison.

As the transfer proceeded, family members of inmates gathered desperately near the facility after learning of the heavy security presence. Some asked officials if their relatives were being moved but received no information; officers asked them to leave and not interfere.

Around 1:00 a.m., the buses left the prison under a heavy security escort from state patrols and federal units. Officials reported the buses carried about 200 inmates serving sentences for various crimes.

While no agency has issued an official statement, sources indicated the transferred inmates may have been sent to different Federal Social Readaptation Centers (Cefereso) or to the Chetumal Penitentiary Center as part of strategies to reduce overcrowding and maintain order.

Authorities are expected to release official details in the coming hours confirming the exact number of people transferred and their destinations.