Quintana Roo Violence: Criminal Groups Clash from North to South

Quintana Roo, a state in Mexico, is currently grappling with a surge in violence due to the activities of criminal groups. In the south, the crime scene is dominated by José Gil Caro Quintero, the nephew of notorious criminal Rafael Caro Quintero. The northern region is disputed by the CJNG and Sinaloa Cartel, while the Zetas and Gulf Cartel have a strong presence in certain municipalities. American agencies have highlighted popular tourist destinations like Cancún and Chetumal due to the influx of drug cartels.

Despite the security measures implemented by the president of the republic, Claudia Sheinbaum, the situation remains dire. The responsibility of ensuring the safety of their states lies with the governors. However, it appears that the focus is more on political and monetary gain rather than the welfare of the citizens. The country is in the grip of a severe social, economic, political, and security crisis, with drug trafficking playing a major role. The Institute for Economics and Peace, in its Peace 2024 report, provides an insight into the security situation in various Mexican states.

Cancún, an important municipality in Quintana Roo, is home to four Mexican criminal groups, in addition to international mafias. The Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and the Sinaloa Cartel are among the major players. Quintana Roo's strategic location with its port facilities makes it a hotspot for arms and narcotics trafficking. The state's Caribbean coast seaports are exploited for smuggling cocaine, weapons, and other contraband.

The recent report identifies four criminal organizations operating in Cancún. The CJNG and the Sinaloa Cartel, which have a significant presence across the country, are active in the region. The Gulf Cartel and a local criminal group composed of former members of Los Zetas also operate in Cancún. The power struggle among these groups has resulted in hundreds of deaths this year alone.

The ongoing social conflict and criminal infighting have led to thousands of deaths, including tourists, over the past three terms. Kidnappings and human trafficking have also seen a significant rise due to this social phenomenon. The Pacific Cartel (Sinaloa Cartel) and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) have a strong presence in the municipalities of Benito Juárez and Othón P. Blanco, particularly in Chetumal and Cancún, with a lesser presence in other parts of the state.