Juan Arena Sworn In as Puerto Aventuras Mayor After Predecessor’s Extortion Arrest

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — Juan Arena Carvajal, the former first councilor of Puerto Aventuras, has been sworn in as the town’s new mayor, replacing Gilberto Gómez Martínez, who was detained a day earlier by the State Prosecutor’s Office along with two officials on extortion charges.

The Playa del Carmen council administered the oath of office to the new mayor during an extraordinary session. Officials said Arena takes the post on a temporary basis because of the absence of the previous mayor, and stressed that the move does not constitute a permanent replacement of Gómez Martínez.

Gerardo Estrada Izquierdo moved up to fill the first councilor position.

Food program organizer turned mayor

Arena holds a law degree from the University of Quintana Roo and is a member of the ruling Morena party. He is best known locally for leading a subsidized food program called “Mercadito Cerca de Ti.”

During the same session, Édgar Barbosa Itzá was sworn in as second alderman, filling in for Orlando Muñoz, who requested leave to compete in Morena’s internal candidate selection process.

Speaking to reporters after the session, Arena said he has been part of the administration since it began and will continue to govern transparently and in coordination with the municipal president, who he said has kept close watch on the town.

“I have lived in Puerto Aventuras for more than 15 years and I have enjoyed working on behalf of residents, even before I entered public service,” he said.

Asked whether he would request additional security for the municipality, Arena said he will first assess the situation he is inheriting before making any decision.

Luis Herrera Quian, secretary general of the city government, said the events in Puerto Aventuras show there is no tolerance for abuse of authority.

“Any official who breaks the law and engages in these practices that harm residents must be reported and punished,” he said.