Durango Prosecutors Arrest Two Notaries for Alleged Fraud; Seize Properties, Documents

Durango's prosecutor's office has arrested two notaries public and seized properties and documents as part of an investigation into alleged real estate fraud. The operation, conducted in coordination with the National Defense Secretariat and the National Guard, led to the arrest of Joaquín “N” on June 22. He holds a notary public patent in Durango and is accused of participating in fraud. A Control Judge issued the arrest warrant following a complaint from an individual who reported the dispossession of their property. Investigations suggest the property was sold to third parties using a purportedly false power of attorney. False information, including that the property was free of encumbrances, was allegedly included in the public deed. The buyers reported being victims of fraud upon discovering inconsistencies related to the property's ownership. Between June 20 and 22, four individuals were arrested in connection with these events: Claudia “N,” accused of receiving funds from the operation; José “N,” who allegedly posed as the property owner; José Luis “N,” identified as the supposed attorney-in-fact; and Joaquín “N,” the notary involved in the sale's protocol. The accused are awaiting a hearing on June 26, 2026, and are under justified preventive detention. Six search warrants were executed in Durango city, leading to the seizure of documents, cash, and properties linked to the investigation, including a notary's office and a residence. A property previously used by a real estate company for fraudulent activities was also secured.