Mexico removes Quintana Roo migration chief amid document fraud allegations

Mexico's National Institute of Migration (INM) has removed Carlos Manuel Bandala González from his position as head of the agency's representation in Quintana Roo. The leadership change follows allegations regarding the irregular issuance of migratory documents to Cuban and Venezuelan nationals.

Reports suggest an investigation into approximately 935 files containing potentially fraudulent documentation. It is alleged that foreign nationals paid between 10,000 and 15,000 Mexican pesos—and in some instances up to 5,000 US dollars—to obtain these papers, which were reportedly used to facilitate other legal procedures within Mexico.

While the removal of Bandala González, a retired admiral, took effect on August 19, the INM has officially denied that the personnel change is directly linked to the ongoing investigation. Mauricio Alejandro Patiño Arroyo has been appointed as the acting head of the agency in Cancún.