Man Arrested for Extortion in Playa del Carmen After Demanding Payments from Business Owner

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — Authorities have arrested a man accused of extorting a business owner in Playa del Carmen by demanding monthly payments under threat of violence.

The State Prosecutor’s Office announced the arrest of Royder Magdaleno, who was taken into custody by investigative police in the Villamar I neighborhood. He faces charges of aggravated extortion, which can carry a prison sentence of up to 37 years and six months in Quintana Roo.

According to officials, the incident occurred on March 16 at a commercial establishment in the Centro neighborhood. Magdaleno allegedly threatened the business owner, claiming he and his family were under surveillance. He reportedly stated he knew the victim’s home address, vehicle, and other personal details to intimidate him.

The suspect initially demanded 50,000 pesos per month as a “protection fee,” saying the money would go to a criminal group. When the merchant refused due to lack of funds, Magdaleno lowered the amount to 20,000 pesos and warned against alerting authorities, claiming armed individuals were nearby.

Although the victim initially agreed, the suspect fled after noticing police presence in the area. The business owner later filed a formal complaint, prompting an investigation that led to an arrest warrant.

Following his capture, Magdaleno was handed over to a judge and placed in the Municipal Detention Center.