Illegal Logging Found in Cozumel Coastal Zone

Cozumel, Mexico — An inspection brigade from Cozumel's Directorate of Urban Development and Ecology has detected unauthorized logging and land clearing operations on a property near the Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone. The discovery was made after heavy machinery was observed operating on the site last Saturday afternoon. Municipal authorities have confirmed an ongoing investigation to determine the property's ownership and apply corresponding sanctions.

The director of the area, Diego Roberto López Mena, reported that the inspection was conducted following a citizen's report received shortly after five o'clock in the afternoon. The report alerted authorities to the noise of a backhoe performing drilling and material movements.

"We divided ourselves to arrive via different access points; upon arrival, there were no people, but we found evidence of land clearing, spread-out material, and a dump truck that fled the scene," he detailed.

The official explained that although an individual made contact by telephone to claim they possessed a permit, no document was ever presented to legally accredit the work. "There are no permits; when work is conducted on a Saturday or on non-business days, it is a clear sign that something irregular is occurring," he emphasized.

Due to the proximity to the sea, the operation was conducted in coordination with the Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone (Zofemat), as one of the reference markers was located within the affected area. He stated that a notice was left at the site instructing the responsible party for the property to present themselves before municipal authorities.

López Mena indicated that sanctions will be imposed once the degree of environmental damage and possible crimes committed are determined. "The fines will depend on the damages caused and the lack of permits, but it is clear that this is an action outside the legal framework," he stated.

During the inspection, an elderly adult accompanied by a minor was found performing cleaning work in the right-of-way, who claimed to have been hired informally. "He said he had already been paid and that he did not know who had hired him, which reinforces the suspicion of irregularities," he added.

The director stated that the municipality will request information from the Cadastre office regarding the property's cadastral key to identify the owner, while Zofemat must verify if anyone holds rights over the coastal strip.

Finally, López Mena reiterated that the municipal administration will maintain constant vigilance to prevent private individuals from attempting to develop projects without complying with environmental and urban procedures.