For families in Mexico searching for missing loved ones, the grim discovery of what is termed an “extermination” site containing human remains and cremation ovens may reflect their deepest fears.
Mexican authorities are actively investigating this site located in the western state of Jalisco, initially uncovered last week by a group of volunteers who suspected it had been used by the notorious New Generation Jalisco Cartel.
Behind its iron gates lie a horrifying array of evidence, including cremation ovens, bone fragments, and hundreds of personal items such as shoes, clothing, and even children’s toys.
“They’d see the shoes and say: ‘those look like the ones my missing relative was wearing when they disappeared,’” said Luz Toscano, one of the volunteers, as reported by BBC News.
The ranch, located near Teuchitlán, was previously raided by Mexican authorities last September, who at that time failed to uncover or disclose the existence of human remains.
During the earlier raid, 10 arrests were made, two hostages were freed, and a body was discovered wrapped in plastic.
As the investigation resumed this week, authorities also recovered nearly 100 shell casings from the site.
While none of the remains have been identified yet, approximately 700 personal items have been cataloged.
Eduardo Guerrero, a security analyst in Mexico City, stated, “The number of victims that could have been buried there is enormous. This serves as a nightmarish reminder that Mexico is afflicted with mass graves.”
The shocking discovery, prompted by an anonymous tip, has dominated headlines and reignited public calls for authorities to take stronger action against cartel violence.
Mexico currently has 120,000 “forcibly disappeared” individuals.
In a video message, Jalisco state Gov. Pablo Lemus assured critics that his office is fully cooperating with federal investigators and emphasized that no one is “washing their hands” of this case, according to BBC News.
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The ranch in Teuchitlán, situated about 37 miles (60 kilometers) west of Guadalajara, was reportedly being utilized as a training ground for cartel recruits when National Guard troops discovered it last September.
