On October 12, five Cuban nationals—four men and a woman—were detained in Cancun's Supermanzana 63 after security officers caught them allegedly trading bags containing what appeared to be marijuana in a public area.
In addition to the suspected drugs, authorities discovered what might be counterfeit bills, a firearm, and two vehicles.
Local media in Quintana Roo, such as Quinta Fuerza, reported on the incident, describing the group as a suspected ring of small-scale drug dealers who also circulated counterfeit money in the city.
Identifying the Suspects
The FGE identified the detained individuals as Yanisleidis "N", 21; José Antonio "N", 44; Deivys "N", 42; Bryan "N", 28; and Yandry "N", also 42, all Cuban nationals.
An investigation was launched against them for potential involvement in health-related crimes, specifically small-scale drug dealing.
The Operation: Blindaje Cancun
The arrest occurred during the "Blindaje Cancun" operation, a coordinated security effort involving the Municipal Police, Mexico's National Defense Secretariat (Sedena), the Navy (Semar), the National Guard, and the Quintana Roo State Attorney General's Office (FGE).
According to the FGE, as quoted by Quinta Fuerza, "officers observed five individuals, four men and one woman, allegedly exchanging transparent plastic bags containing green herb resembling marijuana."
This observation prompted the officers to immediately inspect and detain the group near the El Parián market.
Findings from the Arrest
The authorities' findings were diverse and revealing. Alongside the dry, green herb suspected to be marijuana, officers seized a granular substance similar to crystal meth, a 4.5-millimeter caliber handgun with three live rounds, and several mobile phones.
An additional layer to the case is the discovery of 8,600 Mexican pesos in various denominations, described by authorities as potentially counterfeit.
The authenticity of the currency is yet to be verified through expert analysis, so for now, it remains a suspicion rather than a legally confirmed forgery.
Two vehicles were also confiscated: a gray Chrysler 200 sedan—inside which more dry herb was found—and a black Hero MotoCorp Hunk 160R motorcycle without license plates.
The five individuals, along with all evidence and vehicles, were placed at the disposal of the ministerial authority, which will determine their legal status.
Rising Trend of Cuban Involvement in Narcotics
In recent months, there has been a noticeable increase in the involvement of Cuban nationals in alleged small-scale drug trafficking activities in Cancun.
Back in February, three Cubans and a Mexican were arrested with over $75,000 and suspected drugs.
In August, another incident saw three Cubans detained at Market 28 with over 130 doses of marijuana and crystal meth.
Later that month, a Cuban was captured with more than 100 doses and allegedly counterfeit bills—a recurring element in the Supermanzana 63 case.
Community Reactions
Quinta Fuerza also captured the sentiments of Cancun residents in light of these events.
"Some citizens regret that some of the Cubans who come to live in the city end up involved in illicit activities," the outlet noted. "While many come to work honestly, some seek easy money by evading the law and endangering others."
The investigation concerning the five detained Cubans remains ongoing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cuban Arrests in Cancun
What led to the arrest of the five Cubans in Cancun?
The five Cubans were arrested after being observed allegedly exchanging bags containing what appeared to be marijuana in a public space during a security operation.
What did the authorities find during the arrest?
Authorities seized suspected marijuana, a substance similar to crystal meth, a firearm, counterfeit money, and two vehicles during the arrest.
How has the community reacted to these incidents?
Residents have expressed concern that some Cubans in the city are involved in illegal activities, although many come to work honestly.