Mexican lottery offers former presidential villa as prize in Independence Day drawing
President Andres Manuel López Obrador yesterday confirmed the chance to win the Villas Chakté property in a lottery celebrating Mexico’s independence on September 16 this year. The property in Cancun once belonged to a former president.
The property is worth an estimated 236 million Mexican pesos ($13.8 million), according to government records. Each ticket costs approximately $26.
Originally built during the administration of former President Felipe Calderon, the oceanfront property spans 73,108 square feet and has a total floor area of 8,998 square feet. The hotel is situated on a stunning beach and features a series of palapas, swimming pools, hot tubs, gym, bar and games room, all set against the picturesque backdrop of the Caribbean Sea.
This coveted award has a fascinating past. Raúl Bermúdez Arreola, the former director of the National Tourism Promotion Fund in Cancun, Mexico, allegedly illegally rented the property through Airbnb and Booking.com, charging $600 per night. Over time, the scandal drew intense attention from the city and ultimately led to Bermudez Arreola's firing.
The draw also offers cash prizes of more than MXN 354 million (USD 20.7 million). Attendees also have the chance to win a VIP box at the Aztec Stadium with 20 low-rise seats and four parking spaces.
Ticket proceeds from the Independence Day raffle will be used to build a hospital in the community of Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Quintana Roo.
The draw will take place tonight at the Zocalo Plaza in Mexico City.
El Chapo’s house and loot wins
The recent Independence Day drawing had several special grand prizes up for grabs. In 2021, a home once owned by notorious drug lord Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzman attracted attention.
The property has undergone numerous renovations, including being connected to a network of underground tunnels that were properly sealed before the home was listed as a prize. Strict measures were also taken to search properties for drugs, money and weapons left behind.
Although no one matched the winning numbers, one lucky winner did receive an exclusive box seat at the Aztec Stadium.
The sweepstakes also often include prizes for their agency to return the stolen goods to the people.
This department is part of President Lopez Obrador's initiative after taking office, and is commonly known as the "Robin Hood" department. She is responsible for the redistribution of forfeited assets, including real estate and vehicles, to the public.
Read also:
- The United Arab Emirates is adding a former Missouri attorney to its gaming regulatory team
- Gambling addiction 'does not justify stealing $300,000 from Arkansas grandma bank teller'
- Las Vegas gangster John Spilotro's former home is on the market
- ESPN's Daily Bet Shows "Bye Bye Vegas."
Source: www.casino.org
