Playa del Carmen on Edge After Repeat Syringe Attacks

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — A woman known locally as “Odalys la Chilanga” is at the center of growing public concern in Playa del Carmen after allegedly carrying out multiple syringe attacks in the tourist area of the city.

The alarm first began on August 30, when a young worker on her lunch break was stabbed with a syringe near Avenida Juárez between 15th and 20th. Municipal Police and Tourist Attention and Protection Center (CAPTA) staff quickly detained the suspect, but she was later released. The decision sparked outrage in the community, as authorities had not yet determined what substance, if any, was in the syringe.

Witnesses say the woman struck again on October 2, this time near Calle 26 and 10th Avenue, repeating the same disturbing pattern. The victim was transported to the SESA General Hospital, where doctors are conducting tests to rule out transmission of bloodborne diseases such as HIV. Neighbors and business owners have voiced frustration, warning that as long as she remains free, she represents “a constant risk to public safety.”

Community anger has intensified due to what many see as a lack of urgency from local authorities. “No authority has shown interest in this case,” one social media post read, reflecting a widely shared sentiment on social media.

Odalys, age 25 and originally from Mexico City, was also detained in July after allegedly attempting to rob a tourist in the center of Playa del Carmen. According to the official report, she forcibly took a cell phone before being caught by the victim and turned over to police. The phone was recovered, and she was placed at the disposal of the State Attorney General’s Office (FGE) for legal proceedings but later released.

For many residents, this raises the question of why prior incidents, including the syringe attacks, have not resulted in firm legal action. As investigations continue, authorities are urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant, avoid isolated areas, and immediately report suspicious behavior to police or 911.