Violent Attack Targets “La Palapita” Restaurant in Cancún

This weekend, the restaurant Las Palapitas, located in Region 249 of Cancún, was the target of a new attack involving Molotov cocktails, causing extensive property damage and sparking panic among local residents and staff. According to preliminary reports, four individuals some riding motorcycles threw the incendiary devices in the early morning hours, just as the restaurant staff was preparing to close for the night. The flames quickly spread, engulfing the facade and interior of the building, prompting a swift response from the Benito Juárez fire department, who managed to extinguish the fire in about 45 minutes.

This latest attack is part of a disturbing pattern of violence against the same restaurant, which has reportedly been targeted at least five times before, including shootings and arson. So far, authorities have not reported any injuries, but the damage to the property is significant, and anxiety continues to grow among residents in the area. In response, the Quintana Roo State Attorney General’s Office has opened a new investigation and confirmed that witness statements and security footage are being collected as part of ongoing efforts. The main line of investigation points to a possible extortion attempt an all too common crime in the region.

Residents of the Cielo Nuevo neighborhood, along with restaurant employees, are demanding increased security in light of the persistent wave of violence. Many say they no longer feel safe and fear that the attacks will only escalate. Nearby families were even evacuated during the blaze due to the risk of the fire spreading to surrounding homes.

According to data from Mexico’s national statistics agency INEGI, one in four businesses in Cancún has experienced extortion so far in 2024, with over 60% of business owners ultimately complying with threats. In 2023 alone, Quintana Roo recorded 140 attacks on commercial establishments, resulting in a troubling number of murdered business owners and numerous injuries.

The case of Las Palapitas highlights a broader crisis affecting local entrepreneurs and calls into question the effectiveness of current public safety strategies in the state. As the investigation continues, residents of Region 249 are pleading for immediate action to curb the violence and restore peace to their community.