Chetumal Business Owners Face Fines Up to 50,000 Pesos Under Mayor Yensunni Martinez

Chetumal, Quintana Roo — The municipal government of Othon P. Blanco, led by Mayor Yensunni Martinez Hernandez, has launched an aggressive enforcement campaign against local businesses, imposing fines of up to 50,000 pesos ($2,500) for missing operating permits or garbage collection fees. The crackdown has sparked widespread anger among residents, who accuse the administration of using the final year of its term to squeeze money from merchants while neglecting basic services.

Oscar Luis Dzib Cocom, the city’s director of inspection and enforcement, confirmed that inspectors have been ordered to strictly verify compliance with all administrative requirements. “The maximum fine can reach up to 50,000 pesos,” he said, adding that 14 businesses have already been shut down in 2026.

Residents took to social media to vent their frustration. Gerardo Canto criticized the city’s inconsistency: “They’re quick to demand permits, but they don’t fulfill their own obligations — they don’t even pick up the trash. But that doesn’t seem to matter to them.”

Many see the fines as a desperate revenue grab before Martinez leaves office. Santos Montejo Itza wrote, “They know it’s their last year in government, fining 50,000 pesos as if we’re made of money.” Winsor Sando called it “the year of the hidalgo,” a local expression for a period of excessive demands.

Some residents accused inspectors of corruption and extortion. Gmr Karma said the administration is using its power “to screw over honest workers,” while Morales Cristian asked, “How many years in prison for inspectors who extort?” Jorge Luis Perez Cural called on business owners to unite “until the lambs become lions.”

The Martinez administration has tried to soften the blow by offering business owners a right to a hearing before closure, but the crackdown continues. Residents argue that while the city demands punctual payments, streets remain unpaved, garbage collection is sporadic, and public safety is lacking.