Gas Station Scandal in Akumal: Are Customers Getting Ripped Off?

Gas Station in Akumal Accused of Shortchanging Customers on Fuel

Locals in Akumal are sounding the alarm over what they say is a scam at the pump. According to multiple complaints on social media, a gas station in this popular tourist area has been charging customers for 20 liters of gasoline but only delivering 18.

“It’s blatant theft,” said one frustrated driver. “You pay for 20 liters and notice the tank isn’t filling like it should. We ran our own tests—they’re only giving out 18.”

The accusations have been piling up, but so far, no action has been taken by Profeco, Mexico’s Federal Consumer Protection Agency, which is responsible for investigating and penalizing unfair commercial practices. Customers say they haven’t seen any Profeco inspectors at the station, and the problem has been ongoing for months.

A Pattern of Fraud

This isn’t the first time the station has come under fire. Locals say the issue is recurring, and without proper oversight, it’s only gotten worse. Residents, taxi drivers, delivery workers, and even tourists are being affected by the alleged shortchanging, in a region where fuel is essential to daily life and the local economy.

Under Mexican law, gas stations are required to dispense the exact amount of fuel paid for. Profeco is the agency in charge of enforcing these rules, but the lack of inspections in Akumal has left consumers feeling abandoned—and increasingly angry.

Residents Demand Action

Fed up with the situation, locals are calling on Profeco to step in immediately and conduct surprise inspections. They’re also urging customers to document their fuel purchases and file formal complaints if they suspect fraud.

With trust in local fuel stations dwindling, residents say enforcement is urgently needed to prevent this kind of abuse from becoming the norm.

“This affects everyone,” one resident said. “We rely on fuel to work, to move, to live. Tourists won’t come back if they feel ripped off, and locals can’t keep paying for fuel they’re not getting.”

For now, the pumps keep running—but so does the anger.