Simultaneous Raids in Holbox Lead to Closure of Four Businesses Amid Crime Concerns

Holbox, Quintana Roo — Federal and state authorities conducted five simultaneous raids in Holbox on Thursday, resulting in the closure of four prominent businesses and the seizure of vehicles, though no arrests were made.

The operation involved approximately 50 personnel from the Mexican Navy, the Mexican Army, and the State Prosecutor’s Office. It was launched in response to complaints about drug dealing, extortion, forced disappearances, and protection rackets targeting local businesses.

Unofficial reports identified the shuttered establishments as the Casa Blue hotel and the dining venues Hot Corner, Foody Market, and Bikini Bottoms. Authorities also seized four all-terrain vehicles and intervened at four residential properties.

By Friday afternoon, the State Prosecutor’s Office had not confirmed whether any drugs were confiscated or if arrests occurred. The lack of detentions fueled skepticism among residents, who described the police deployment as “worthy of a movie for not arresting anyone.”

Locals expressed fears of retaliation once security forces leave the island. They noted that reports of disappearances have circulated since 2021 and that a killing near the municipal cemetery in 2025 was downplayed by officials.

Business owners and residents have called on Governor Mara Lezama to maintain a consistent presence of Navy and state prosecutor personnel, at least during the upcoming Easter holiday period, to prevent criminal groups from targeting perceived informants.

The closures could impose fines of up to 200,000 pesos for businesses seeking to reopen, impacting local entrepreneurs while illegal distribution networks reportedly continue to operate.