Cancún Transport Drivers Face Renewed Harassment Before Holidays

Just days before the Christmas holidays, transport drivers in Cancún have reported a resurgence of harassment and fines from National Guard members for operating at Cancún International Airport. A video circulating on social media shows National Guard agents attempting to prevent a driver from providing service at the airport.

In the video, the driver explains to English-speaking passengers that local security guards and unofficial taxi drivers have stopped her from operating because they claim her service is illegal. The passengers attempt to explain to the authorities that they requested the service and insist on its provision, citing concerns for their safety. Ultimately, the passengers are forced to cancel the service and exit the vehicle.

Águeda Esperilla Soto, a spokesperson for the drivers, claims that the video evidence demonstrates collusion between the National Guard and unofficial taxi drivers to prevent platform-based transport services from operating at the airport, despite some being legally authorized to do so.

Esperilla Soto recounts the distressing scene, saying, "In the end, they did remove the girls, who were crying because they were scared. Unfortunately, it's typical of the National Guard's poor behavior." She claims that one of the officers told her they couldn't let her go because it would cause them trouble, implying that avoiding conflict with the unofficial taxis is more important to them than ensuring tourist safety.

Esperilla Soto alleges that the National Guard, in collaboration with the unofficial taxis, has resumed its campaign of harassment and fines against her colleagues in recent weeks. She estimates that around 30 fines have been issued to drivers of these transport services for operating at Cancún International Airport.

"Last week they fined a colleague and the fines continue. They eased off a bit on harassing us, yes, but in these last few days when more people are starting to arrive for the holiday season, the unofficial taxi drivers began pointing fingers again," Esperilla Soto explains.

She adds that the fine imposed by the National Guard on drivers operating at Cancún International Airport is 54 thousand pesos, with additional costs for towing and crane services amounting to around 16 thousand pesos.