Ex-Isla Mujeres Cop “Comander” Arrested for Extortion

Quintana Roo, Mexico — The Attorney General's Office of Quintana Roo (FGE) announced the arrest of Rafael "N," alias "Comander," a former municipal police officer from Isla Mujeres, for his alleged involvement in extortion crimes targeting a water sports company in Costa Mujeres. His capture was executed in Hidalgo following a collaborative investigation between authorities in both states.

Years of Intimidation and Extortion

According to official reports, since 2020, a tourism business in Costa Mujeres had been subjected to weekly extortion demands by an alleged criminal group led by Rafael "N." The group reportedly used firearms, threats, and physical violence to coerce payments of up to $1,000 per week in exchange for "protection."

After resigning from the Isla Mujeres municipal police force in February 2024, the suspect allegedly recruited additional individuals to continue the extortion scheme, escalating violence against business owners and employees who refused to pay.

Evidence Linking "Comander" to Crimes

The Specialized Prosecutor’s Office for Kidnapping and Extortion Crimes disclosed the following findings:

• Rafael "N" is linked to three active extortion investigations.
• He is accused of leading a criminal group that illegally collected payments in Costa Mujeres.
• The group employed armed intimidation and physical assaults to enforce compliance.
• The network operated primarily in the mainland area of Isla Mujeres.
• Five individuals have already been detained and formally charged in connection with the case.

Legal Proceedings Underway

Rafael "N" was located and apprehended in Hidalgo by investigative police under an arrest warrant. He was subsequently transferred to Quintana Roo, where a judge will oversee the legal proceedings.

Authorities reiterated their call for citizens to report criminal activity anonymously to further dismantle organized crime networks operating in the region.