Introduction to the Problem and the Government’s Response
The government of Mexico City aims to tackle illegal real estate dispossession more effectively by introducing a comprehensive strategy against this multifaceted issue. The problem involves corruption, criminal networks, legal loopholes, and the misuse of public or notarial positions for illicit gains.
The Scope of the Problem
According to Mexico City’s Chief of Government, Clara Brugada, this issue requires strengthening institutional frameworks and establishing a legal framework to penalize such illegal activities. In 2025 alone, there have been 2,245 dispossession-related complaints in the capital—an 8% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
Proposed Legal Amendments
- Introduce a new Article 238 Bis to equate certain behaviors with the crime of dispossession, such as illegally occupying a property without a legitimate eviction order.
- Include aggravating factors like identity theft, false representation of public office, use of forged notarial documents, and dispossessions in protected zones or public properties.
Bertha Alcalde Luján, the Fiscal General de Justicia of Mexico City, explained that using a public position, notarial status, or affiliation with any union or social group to participate in or benefit from dispossession will also be considered a criminal act.
Specialized Institutions for Addressing Dispossession
The strategy includes the creation of two specialized bodies to address this issue:
- Specialized Unit Against Dispossession, under the Secretariat of Government.
- Dispossession Attention Cabinet, which will review and follow up on each case with participation from the capital’s fiscal office and the Judicial Power.
“We will meticulously review cases involving family or other legal proceedings to ensure proper caution regarding these behaviors,” Alcalde Luján emphasized.
Legal and Registral Safeguards
The strategy also outlines two legal and registral reforms:
- Amendments to the Public Property Registry Law and the Ciudad de Mexico Registral Law to prevent the use of fraudulent documents.
- State validation will be required for documents presented by foreign notaries.
“We will pursue cases involving notaries and individuals impersonating notary personnel,” the fiscal clarified.
Citizen Attention Channels
The strategy also aims to expand channels for citizen attention:
- New specialized line: 55-5345-8120.
- Attention channels: Zócalo de Gobierno Ciudadano, Gobierno Casa por Casa, Territorios de Paz, Locatel, 911, official social media, and the Public Ministry.
