Elderly Woman Fights to Reclaim Land Invaded by Criminal Group in Ecatepec

In Ecatepec, State of Mexico, an 83-year-old woman, Aurelia Caratachea Gallegos, is battling to reclaim her property after it was illegally occupied and used to build an unauthorized gas station. The land was initially rented, but the renters, allegedly members of the 'Los 300' criminal group, stopped paying rent and refused to leave. Aurelia's nephew, Juan Manuel Caratachea, stated, "In 2019, there was an eviction, and the court ruled in favor of my aunt." Despite the legal victory, the gas station remains operational. Aurelia's son, Julián Ángel Caratachea, added, "They didn't pay rent, and now it's a dangerous gas station." Local authorities have suspended the gas station's operations due to safety concerns, but the family continues to seek full recovery of their property and peace of mind. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of land disputes and the need for stronger enforcement of property rights in the region.