Residents of the Ignacio Zaragoza community have been blocking the Cancún-Mérida highway since Monday afternoon. The blockade is centered around the El Tintal toll booth. The protesters are demanding the release of a local young man, Jazahiel N.C.R., who was arrested on charges of raping his ex-partner in Playa del Carmen.
The protest initially began on the free road at Ignacio Zaragoza from 10 in the morning. However, when their demands were not met, the protesters escalated the situation by blocking the toll road. This disruption occurred as hundreds of motorists were returning from Yucatan after the long weekend.
The blocked roads, which fall under federal jurisdiction, are causing significant inconvenience. Hundreds of tourists returning from tours in Valladolid and Chichén Itzá are also affected, with dozens of buses being held up.
Jazahiel N.C.R. was arrested last week in Playa del Carmen after his ex-partner filed a complaint accusing him of rape. It is alleged that this was done in an attempt to gain custody of their child. The protesters, who include family and friends of Jazahiel, view the arrest as unjust and accuse the Quintana Roo Prosecutor's Office of acting arbitrarily.
The traffic disruption has led to widespread discontent among drivers, who fear the situation could worsen if a resolution is not promptly reached. The protesters have vowed to maintain the blockade until Jazahiel is released. They are also calling for fair and transparent justice.
As of now, there has been no official statement from the authorities.
Discover more from Riviera Maya News & Events
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.