Crime wave in the Mayan Riviera could impact the region’s economy

In just a couple of years, Playa del Carmen, in the state of Quintana Roo, has shifted from a tropical paradise to a violent hive of criminal activity. However, many tourists never see any sign of this unprecedented wave of violence.

Quintana Roo is the state that receives the highest number of international tourists in the country. 

To protect them, the government has created the app “Guest Assist” which includes services for emergencies, including extortion and kidnapping.  This month, the Quintana Roo government announced that its state police force would assume sole responsibility for all security in this town and take control of the local police. Alberto Capella, the State Security secretary, is now in command of the state and municipal police. In an exclusive interview with UNews, Mr. Capella told us that they weren’t prepared for the recent upsurge in violence.