Shocking Rise in Sexual Violence Against Girls in Cancun

Cancun, specifically the region of Benito Juarez, has seen a significant rise in sexual violence, primarily against young girls and teenagers under 20 years old. Data from the State Bank of Data and Information on Cases of Violence against Women (Baesvim) shows that in the first quarter of 2024, Cancun reported 230 cases of sexual assault out of the 582 registered in Quintana Roo.

Of these cases, 149 victims were girls aged between 15 and 19, accounting for 27.14% of the incidents. The next most affected group was girls aged 10 to 14, with 97 confirmed cases. The majority of these assaults took place in the victims' homes, with 95% of violent incidents in the state occurring in private spaces. Only 5% of incidents were reported in public spaces.

The Quintana Roo Women's Institute (IQM) reports that the most common perpetrators are family members, including uncles, stepfathers, cousins, and fathers. The areas in Cancun with the highest incidence of these crimes are regions 259, 260, 251, 107, 248, 249, and 247.

Authorities note that many of these sexual attacks are committed by individuals who are not in full control of their actions due to intoxication or anger. In response to this issue, Denia de Yta, the coordinator of the IQM in Benito Juarez, has highlighted the efforts of the Women's Network against Violence. This group is active in various neighborhoods in Cancun, particularly those with high rates of violence.

Members of the Women's Network, in collaboration with local authorities, distribute information, identify, and help manage new cases of violence against women. They ensure victims receive timely psychological support, protective measures, legal advice, and even training to become independent and remove themselves from harmful environments.

In the first quarter of 2023, Cancun reported 130 cases of sexual violence, while Quintana Roo reported 310 incidents. This represents a 76.9% increase in incidents within Cancun in just one year, according to data from Baesvim.