Unless you hold a badge, and there is a crime going on
In Mexico, there is a “dicho” (some kind of statement) that says: When you see your neighbor’ s beard cut, soak yours.
This means that when something happens, pay attention before it happens to you. While this is not happening in Cabo “yet”, it better not start.
A few days ago, it went viral that a foreign woman, presumably of American origin, was involved in an altercation on San Pancho beach, in the municipality of Bahía de Banderas, Nayarit.
The woman verbally attacked a Mexican family and demanded they leave, claiming to own a concession in the area. This incident has sparked outrage among residents, who defend free access to the country’s beaches. The altercation occurred while the family was enjoying a day at the beach in front of a property where several homes are currently being built. A foreign woman allegedly confronted them, claiming they had no right to be there. After a public outcry, government officials stepped in, issuing fines and shutting down construction at the property. The community responded the best way they know how, with music, unity, and pride in their public spaces. A band of fellow Mexicans stood there and started playing “banda music”.
The woman, approximately 60 years old, approached angrily, kicked a drink belonging to one of the family members, and demanded they leave. It should be noted that the property in question has a closure banner, indicating that construction work has been suspended by authorities. Is there any type of fine for chasing people away from a public place? The case of the woman in Nayarit suggests there is.
The Bahía de Banderas government detailed that the woman is facing a fine of 150,000 pesos, around 7.5 thousand dollars, although this figure could increase due to possible repeated violations of municipal sanctions related to urban development.
According to authorities, the construction company associated with the property and the woman in question have engaged in prior irregularities, which exacerbates the situation. However, these appear to be related to the construction of the site. Nonetheless, there is a sanction and fine for chasing people off a public beach.
According to Nayarit’s Law of Culture and Civic Justice, any person who attempts to impede or obstruct in any way the use of public spaces, the freedom of movement, or the freedom of action of others will be subject to a fine or imprisonment for 13 to 24 hours.
The incident has reignited the debate over free access to beaches in Mexico, a right guaranteed by law. The attitude of the foreign woman, who claimed to have a concession on the beach, has been described as discriminatory by the residents of Bahía de Banderas.
In Mexico, beaches belong to everyone. No private ownership. No exceptions. This is a real reminder for anyone thinking about moving to Mexico: Respect the people. Respect the culture. Respect the law.