Playa del Carmen Residents Fight Illegal Evictions

PLAYA DEL CARMEN — Residents from various neighborhoods in this city have reported being harassed by individuals claiming to be legal representatives who, without presenting court orders, are attempting to force them from their homes. The alleged representatives argue that the properties are part of a defaulted portfolio acquired from bankrupt real estate companies.

The most recent case was reported last week in the Misión Villamar II subdivision, where Petronila Santiago Luis stated she received a visit from a group of men who identified themselves as lawyers. She recounted that they demanded she hand over the house she lives on Margaritas Street, claiming to be the new owners after acquiring the collection rights from the defunct real estate company Su Casita.

However, the alleged lawyers were unable to take action after she presented copies of her utility bills and property tax receipts. Despite this, she continues to face harassment and intimidation from the supposed new owners.

The president of the Asociación de Vecinos Unidos A.C. (United Neighbors Association), Marcos Antonio López Díaz, explained that this is not an isolated incident. He detailed that attempts at eviction without legal basis have been recorded in the Villamar I and Villamar II neighborhoods, creating uncertainty for dozens of families who purchased homes through real estate companies that collapsed over a decade ago.

With support from legal advisors, López Díaz verified whether any of the real estate companies, banks, or debt collection agencies had a claim on the citizen's property, but it did not appear on any list. He stated that the only remaining step is to verify with the courts and initiate a regularization process as part of their right to defend themselves.

The association's president reiterated to citizens finding themselves in the same situation that they should not be deceived by pseudo-lawyers, should seek legal advice to begin legal proceedings, or alternatively, negotiate with the debt collectors to avoid a potential eviction.

The association has provided legal support to the neighbors, reviewing the validity of the supposed ownership claims. Meanwhile, organized residents have announced they will continue to document each case to prevent abuses and defend families' rights to keep their homes in Playa del Carmen.