Mexican authorities close Yucatán wetlands properties over illegal land use

The Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) sealed five properties in the coastal towns of Celestún and Río Lagartos after finding extensive damage to mangroves and dunes. The operation recorded the removal of 2,578 m² of mangrove, burning of vegetation, filling of a wetland and occupation of 274 m² of federal maritime‑terrestrial zone without a concession. The closures are part of a second national environmental operation that covered 33 protected areas in 25 states, aimed at halting illegal coastal land‑use changes.

Separately, municipal inspectors in Bacalar, Quintana Roo, placed closure seals on a coastal plot following videos that showed suspected illegal tree cutting. The authorities are investigating the site to prevent further harm to the local ecosystem, which supports a major tourism attraction. Both actions reflect a zero‑tolerance policy toward environmental violations in the Yucatán Peninsula.