Land Dispute Behind Kidnapping of 13 Workers in Bacalar: Officials

Bacalar, Quintana Roo — A land dispute in the town of Pueblo Morebi is the main line of investigation into the abduction of 13 workers in Bacalar, according to the Quintana Roo State Prosecutor’s Office (FGE). All 13 people reported missing on Aug. 4 have been found alive and in good health.

Estela Noemí Labastida Rodríguez, deputy prosecutor for the FGE’s southern zone, said the investigation was opened after a 911 call from relatives who reported losing contact with the group.

The workers were split into two groups: four technicians from Chetumal who traveled to Pueblo Morebi to repair a dump truck with mechanical problems, and nine workers from Cancún employed by a company that specializes in assembling and dismantling metal structures.

Authorities launched an interagency operation involving federal, state and municipal personnel, drone support, a helicopter and ground patrols through the jungle areas of Bacalar.

The search ended with the rescue of all 13 workers, none of whom were injured. They received preventive medical care, hydration and food, according to the FGE.

“There is a dispute over a property where the workers met and where they were deprived of their liberty,” Labastida Rodríguez said.

The FGE did not release additional details to protect the investigation, but confirmed that suspects have been identified and arrest warrants are expected in the coming hours.