Playa del Carmen Teacher Arrested After Students Fall Ill, Suspected of Providing Drugs

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — Authorities arrested a secondary school teacher here after three students fell ill with symptoms of intoxication, allegedly linked to items the educator provided during class.

The Quintana Roo State Prosecutor’s Office confirmed the detention of Rubén “N,” a teacher at Luz María Zabaleta Secondary School, for his suspected involvement in acts that could constitute corruption of minors.

According to initial reports, three adolescent students began feeling unwell around 5 p.m. on Wednesday. The incident came to light when parents arrived at the school after classes ended, prompting concern and demands for immediate explanations from school officials and security personnel.

Municipal police officers responded to the scene, while Red Cross paramedics attended to the students, who were later stabilized. After regaining consciousness, the students reportedly told investigators that the teacher, who taught Technology and Information Technology, had given them candy during the lesson.

Playa del Carmen Mayor Estefanía Mercado and state education authorities issued strong statements regarding the case, pledging a thorough investigation.

The State Prosecutor’s Office said it will continue its investigation to determine exactly what happened and reiterated it will act firmly against any conduct that risks the safety of children and adolescents.