PLAYA DEL CARMEN, Mexico – Kirt Alan Griffin, a 62-year-old American citizen, has publicly denounced the alleged theft of his Toyota SUV in Playa del Carmen, accusing a criminal network of using fraudulent documentation and potentially involving public officials to facilitate the crime.
Griffin reports that his vehicle was stolen in April 2026. According to his legal representation, the theft was allegedly facilitated by a local locksmith who gained access to the keys while providing services at Griffin’s residence. The vehicle, which was imported legally with U.S. title documents, was subsequently moved into the illicit market.
Alleged Network of Illicit Marketing
Griffin’s legal team alleges that the vehicle is part of a larger ring involved in the commercialization of stolen goods. They identified several participants, including a local locksmith, a used car mechanic, and an individual who allegedly issued fraudulent documentation from the state of Chiapas.
The defense highlights a significant discrepancy in the documentation: a “fake” invoice for 86,000 pesos was allegedly used for a vehicle with an estimated market value of 500,000 pesos. The defense also points to possible interventions by “gestores” (facilitators) of vehicle procedures before the SAT (Tax Administration Service) in Quintana Roo.
Allegations of Corruption and Extortion
The victim reports that the vehicle was eventually sold to a second individual without proper legal title. Furthermore, Griffin claims that when he attempted to recover the vehicle through dialogue, he was demanded a payment of 190,000 pesos to have it returned.
Most alarmingly, the defense suggests that the network may involve links to public agencies, officials, and former public servants. They are calling for a full investigation into the authenticity of the documents and the potential involvement of public officials in the “illicit marketing of vehicles.”
Lack of Progress from Authorities
Griffin expressed frustration with the State Attorney General’s Office (FGE) of Quintana Roo, noting a lack of significant progress in the investigation six months after the theft. He emphasizes that while the vehicle is currently not reported as stolen in the National Vehicle Registry (REPUVE), a criminal complaint has been filed for the robbery.
The legal team is demanding a comprehensive audit of the fiscal and commercial records associated with the vehicle to determine the true chain of ownership and the identities of those involved in the fraudulent activities.
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