Tulum Eviction Protest Blocks Highway 307

Tulum, Quintana Roo — Federal Highway 307 was partially blocked early Wednesday morning near kilometer 223 after an alleged eviction attempt carried out overnight by authorities in the informal settlement known as Tren Maya, south of Tulum.

Protesters Set Fires, Halt Traffic

In response to the eviction, a group of residents opposed to the operation placed tires, rocks, and logs across the highway before setting them ablaze, effectively cutting off vehicle access toward the municipality of Felipe Carrillo Puerto. Motorists were advised to exercise extreme caution as some attempted to speed through the thick smoke and flames to avoid being trapped.

Alleged Eviction Sparks Outrage

Witnesses reported that the eviction began around 3:00 a.m. and was conducted by ministerial police from the Quintana Roo Attorney General’s Office (FGE), allegedly accompanied by armed civilians and officers from the State Secretariat of Citizen Security. Authorities reportedly entered the property with heavy machinery and, according to residents, without presenting a court order, which incited anger among the settlement’s inhabitants.

During the operation, several individuals were detained and transported to Playa del Carmen. The presence of plainclothes officers armed with firearms caused confusion and fear among residents, who claim the eviction was carried out violently.

Roadblock Escalates Tensions

In protest, affected residents mobilized early on July 23, blocking the federal highway while wielding sticks, stones, and machetes. They set tires alight with gasoline as a pressure tactic to demand dialogue or a resolution from authorities.

As of now, officials have not released an official statement regarding the eviction operation or the number of arrests made. Traffic remains restricted and hazardous in the affected area, with drivers urged to avoid the zone and seek alternate routes.