Federal Agents Remove Vendors from Cancún Beaches

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Federal authorities have deployed agents across Cancún’s Hotel Zone to remove unlicensed street vendors from ten beaches, part of a heightened security operation during the Holy Week holiday season. Four individuals were detained during the crackdown, which aims to curb illegal sales and maintain order in high-traffic tourist areas.

Heightened Surveillance Along the Coast

Approximately 100 officers from the National Guard (GN), Mexican Navy (Semar), and Tourist Police are patrolling a 20-kilometer stretch of coastline, including popular beaches such as Delfines, Ballenas, and Chac Mool. Authorities estimate that around 400 vendors have attempted to access the federally regulated shoreline to sell goods illegally.

During inspections, agents monitored beachgoers and marine activities, including parasailing excursions. One operator reported charging 1,200 pesos per ride, with demand expected to surge from 15 daily trips to 40 during peak holiday days. "Sales are steady now, but we anticipate a significant increase by Thursday," the vendor stated.

Crackdown on Informal Trade and Security Risks

The operation follows longstanding prohibitions against informal commerce on federal beaches, which fall under the jurisdiction of the GN, Semar, and Tourist Police. Officials cite concerns over illicit activities, including drug sales and theft, as justification for the intensified measures.

In February, vendors affiliated with the Confederation of Workers and Peasants (CTC) protested outside Cancún’s City Hall, demanding permits to operate in the Hotel Zone. Elvia Luciano, a representative of the group, accused security forces of harassment and physical confrontations. "We just want to work. The police should protect citizens, not target us," she argued during the demonstration.

Municipal authorities, however, reaffirmed their stance through the Commerce and Public Services department, stating that unlicensed vending on beaches will not be tolerated.

Background on Vendor Disputes

The current operation mirrors past efforts to clear public spaces of unregulated commerce. In June 2023, Cancún’s municipal government removed vendors from the city center to address rising theft and drug-related incidents. Similarly, in August 2020, reports indicated a 30% increase in ambulant vendors, prompting renewed enforcement actions.

The ongoing patrols aim to ensure safety for tourists and legitimate businesses while deterring unauthorized sales ahead of the holiday weekend.