Residents Block Access to Akumal Community Over Arrest in Cenote Land Dispute

Akumal, Quintana Roo — Residents of the Uxuxubí community in Akumal blocked the main access road on Monday to protest the arrest of a local man in a land dispute involving cenotes, temporarily disrupting traffic and tourist routes to nearby natural attractions.

According to Santos Pech, a member of the Balanjá community group, authorities arrested Juan Mastah Uk on Sunday around 3:30 p.m. and presented him to the State Prosecutor’s Office in Tulum. Residents say the arrest stemmed from an alleged home invasion complaint filed by individuals claiming ownership of land containing at least three cenotes.

Community members maintain the property belongs to national lands and that Mastah Uk was merely protecting what they consider Akumal’s natural and community heritage. They say they have spent months trying to resolve the dispute with local and state authorities, including the State Prosecutor’s Office, State Police, and Municipal Police, without clear resolution.

Protesters also reported threats and intimidation from individuals interested in the property, increasing tensions in the community. They demand a review of the case and Mastah Uk’s release, insisting his arrest was unjust while defending local heritage.

During the peaceful protest, residents blocked vehicle access to Uxuxubí, temporarily affecting tourism service providers and visitors heading to cenotes. They say they will maintain the blockade until authorities address their demands and clarify the territorial conflict.