Overview
- Two helmeted men on a motorcycle circled El Calamar and twice hurled incendiary devices at its palapa before fleeing, according to newly released security video now in authorities’ hands.
- A banner left at the scene claimed the attack in the name of Mafia Veracruzana and warned other venues on the malecón, including Nueva Yol, Tantra and local casinos.
- Emergency crews contained the blaze but the restaurant was destroyed and officials reported no injuries, with federal and state security forces securing the site for ministerial investigation.
- No arrests have been announced, and officials say extortion is the main line of inquiry as agents analyze the recordings and other evidence.
- Owners said all staff are safe and appealed for protection to preserve about 30 jobs, noting this was the second fire at the site after a May 2024 incident amid a regional surge of attacks and recent kidnappings of two businessmen.