Nine Suspected Gang Members Arrested in Playa del Carmen for Bar Attacks and Homicides

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — A joint operation between the Playa del Carmen Public Security Department and the State Prosecutor’s Office led to the arrest of nine alleged members of a criminal cell accused of extortion, drug dealing, armed attacks on businesses, and at least two homicides in the municipality.

Mayor Estefanía Mercado said the ongoing coordination among municipal, state, and federal authorities has strengthened the fight against crime and advanced efforts to build a safer community. She described the arrests as a significant step in the comprehensive security strategy developed through the Peace Construction Roundtable.

The mayor reiterated her administration’s zero-tolerance policy toward crime and pledged continued support for intelligence, investigation, and prevention efforts by security institutions.

State Attorney General Raciel López Salazar said the arrests were carried out in separate operations near the Villas del Sol neighborhood. Among those detained is Miguel “N,” alias “El Kilo,” 33, identified as the alleged leader of the organization. Also arrested were Luis Ángel “N,” alias “La Barbie,” and Leonardo “N,” alias “El Negro,” both identified as suspected hitmen.

The other detainees were identified as Jesús “N,” Carlos “N,” Adán “N,” Jonathan “N,” Edgar “N,” and Claudio “N.” Authorities seized various quantities of marijuana, methamphetamine, and cocaine, a 9mm Glock pistol, a vehicle, and several cell phones.

The three alleged leaders are under investigation for their suspected involvement in the murder of Marco Antonio and the attempted murder of workers at the El Camarón Guasaveño restaurant, which was attacked weeks earlier. Investigations also point to the involvement of Irving Osvaldo “N,” previously arrested, who allegedly drove the motorcycle used in the attack.