Playa del Carmen, Q.R. — A suspect accused of demanding 50,000 a month from central Playa del Carmen business has been arrested. Police reported on the capture of Royder Magdaleno “N” for aggravated extortion to fund a criminal group.
“The events for which the suspect was arrested occurred on March 16 of this year when the subject went to a commercial establishment located on 10th Avenue North in the centro neighborhood of Playa del Carmen,” they said.
“There, he allegedly threatened the owner telling him that he was being watched, that they knew his address, the vehicle he used, and that his family was also being observed.
“He also demanded 50,000 pesos per month as “protection money,” stating that the money would go to a criminal group. When the victim refused due to lack of resources, the accused allegedly asked for 20,000 pesos and warned against not notifying the police, as there were supposedly armed people in the vicinity,” police explained in a statement.
“The victim agreed to make the payment, however, the suspect fled the scene upon noticing the presence of police officers in the area.”
The owner of the business filed a complaint that led to the arrest of Royder Magdaleno “N”. He was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant from the Villamar I subdivision of Playa del Carmen.
Police say the crime of aggravated extortion is provided for in current legislation with a penalty that can reach up to 37 years and six months in prison.
