Cancun Trapped in Insecurity, Unsafe Feelings

Quintana Roo Tourism Secretary Gabriela Rodriguez Galvez warned this week about reigning insecurity in Cancun, Mexico´s top travel destination in the Caribbean, and called on the new municipal authorities to find a comprehensive way out.

For his part, Jose Chapur Zahoul, president of the local hotel association, also cried wolf over the soaring number of complaints filed at consular agencies by tourists who had been victimized by extortionists and con artists.

Some visitors have denounced traffic tickets imposed by phony cops, and cabdrivers that overcharge travelers.

In the same breath, there´s increasing concern over the proliferation of drug dealers in beach areas and hotels.

In Mr. Zahoul´s opinion, scarcity of municipal resources and funds is making thefts and extortions bloom all across Cancun.

Mrs. Galvez, however, is confident the new municipal administration of Francisco Alor Quezada will make all necessary corrections to restore peace and security.