Cancún extortion suspect Mario Apolonio formally charged

Cancún, Quintana Roo — The Quintana Roo State Attorney General’s Office secured a judge’s order to formally charge Mario Apolonio “N” for his alleged involvement in an extortion scheme targeting a transportation business at Cancún International Airport.

Criminal Group Targeted Transportation Business

According to the investigation, Apolonio is suspected of belonging to a criminal organization that pressured the victim—a local transportation entrepreneur—and his employees to allow ride-hailing taxis to operate in exchange for “protection.”

On May 26, 2025, one of Apolonio’s accomplices visited the business and threatened an employee, warning they would be “taken” if they refused to comply. Shortly afterward, the victim received a phone call demanding 100,000 pesos under the threat of violence against their homes and families.

Days later, three individuals returned to the establishment, issuing warnings about alleged “changes” at the airport. The intimidation escalated on June 7 when an employee’s vehicle was attacked. A banner was later left at a residence in Supermanzana 72, directly addressing the business owner.

Final Demand and Arrest

Mario Apolonio “N” personally visited an employee’s home to demand payment, referencing the prior attacks as leverage. Following a thorough investigation, the Specialized Prosecutor’s Office for Kidnapping and Extortion Crimes secured a preventive detention order while judicial proceedings continue.

The case highlights ongoing efforts by authorities to combat organized crime in Quintana Roo’s tourism-heavy regions.