Suspect Known as ‘El Coquerito’ Charged With Trafficking Minors in Tulum

Photo of the State Prosecutor's Office related to the trafficking case of El Coquerito in Tulum

Tulum, Quintana Roo — A man identified as Juan Carlos N, alias “El Coquerito,” has been formally charged with human trafficking for using minors in criminal activities, the State Prosecutor’s Office announced.

According to the investigation, the suspect is linked to a criminal organization that allegedly recruited teenagers through social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and TikTok, as well as through acquaintances who offered fake jobs as waitresses, cooks, or hotel and restaurant workers.

The three victims were reportedly transported from the states of Tamaulipas and Michoacán to Quintana Roo, with the organization providing money and bus tickets. Upon arrival, they were forced to sell and distribute drugs in Tulum, authorities said.

A judge ordered two years of pretrial detention for Juan Carlos N while the investigation continues. The rescued teenagers have been placed under the care of the DIF (System for Integral Family Development) for protection and support.

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By Javier Mendez

Javier Mendez covers public safety, law enforcement, and legal affairs in Quintana Roo. He monitors official reports from the FGE (State Prosecutor's Office), the Mexican Navy, and municipal police to deliver accurate English summaries of crime, trafficking cases, arrests, and court rulings affecting the Riviera Maya region.Javier has been covering crime and public safety news since 2023, reporting on cases ranging from felony arrests and human trafficking investigations to court proceedings and organized crime-related incidents across Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Chetumal. His reporting provides English-speaking residents and travelers with reliable, timely information about safety conditions in Quintana Roo's major tourist destinations.Javier works closely with official government sources and press offices to verify facts before publication, and maintains an archive of law enforcement communications to provide context for ongoing stories. He is dedicated to accurate, factual reporting on complex safety issues that affect both residents and visitors to the region.For story tips: javier@rivieramayanews.mx