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One arrested after false explosive threat on Playa del Carmen, Cozumel ferry route

Playa del Carmen, Q.R. — An intense police, marine and military presence was seen on both sides of the Playa del Carmen – Cozumel ferry terminals Monday after the claim of an explosive device.

The ferry docks of Playa del Carmen and Cozumel were temporarily closed by the National Guard and local police after a message was found that a bomb would be in a suitcase on a crossing boat. The discovery of the message occurred at 7:45 a.m. on the Playa del Carmen side.

The finding of the message was reported to 911, causing a significant security mobilization. The message included the description of a suitcase that allegedly contained the explosive. Police set out in search of that suitcase.

After a thorough review of all facilities, authorities determined that it was a false threat. Guido Rosas López, director of Public Security in Cozumel said that the boats, docks and surroundings were searched and nothing was found. However, one person was arrested.

Cozumel mayor Pedro Joaquín Delbouis confirmed that public security elements have a suspect in custody. Arrested was 19-year-old J.E.V.C., who was allegedly found in possession of instructions on how to detente a bomb. He was transferred to the Attorney General of the State (FGE)

Alberto Capella, State Secretary for Public Security said “some started the week with very bad jokes. The alleged explosive devices in the state are false. The jokes are in very bad taste and are being investigated.”

He explained that at 1:26 Monday morning, an employee of a self-service company in Cancun confused a detector that was lying on the floor with an explosive device, but that after a through review, all risk was ruled out.

He added that hours later at 7:46 a.m., a message was found at the Playa del Carmen pier that an explosive device was going to appear at a certain hour on a boat that would cross from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel, so the corresponding protocols were activated.

“It was a joke in very bad taste, there was nothing,” he said.