Playa del Carmen Land Scam Alert: Illegal Sales Exposed

Chetumal, Quintana Roo — The Secretariat of Territorial, Urban, and Sustainable Development of Quintana Roo (Sedetus) has issued a real estate alert following reports of an alleged illegal invasion and unauthorized sale of approximately 400 hectares of federally owned land near the federal highway in Playa del Carmen.

Julián Cano Novelo Accused of Irregular Sales

The actions have been attributed to Julián Cano Novelo, a well-known community leader originally from Yucatán who has resided in Playa del Carmen for over three decades. The land in question is reportedly being subdivided without authorization under the name "Colonia Julián Cano Novelo," marketed as a settlement for low-income families. However, authorities confirm the project lacks official permits or valid documentation, raising concerns about potential real estate fraud.

This is not the first time Cano Novelo has faced such allegations. In 2015, after being released from prison, he led the occupation of land near the In House neighborhood, promoting an irregular settlement called "Colonia Roberto Borge."

"A Completely Illegal Act": Alonso Ovando

According to local reports, the latest mobilization to occupy the land began this past weekend. Although no formal complaint has been filed, authorities are expected to intervene.

José Alberto Alonso Ovando, head of Sedetus, confirmed that the disputed land is federal property, making its sale a federal crime. "This is a completely illegal act. Selling national land is a crime. There is no zoning approval, no permits, and no environmental authorization. Beyond defrauding buyers, this harms the environment and urban planning," Alonso Ovando stated.

Legal Consequences Warned

The official warned that legal action will be taken against those responsible, including potential sanctions from the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa). Alonso Ovando also urged the public to avoid purchasing land without legal backing.

"What isn’t yours belongs to everyone. Selling national land means profiting illegitimately from assets that belong to the nation. Families lose their money, their property, and their security," he emphasized.

The situation has raised concerns not only over the risk of eviction for buyers but also the broader impact of unauthorized settlements on urban development in the region.