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Mexican Authorities Investigate Mass Grave Site Linked to Cartel Violence

Discovery of charred remains and cremation ovens at a Jalisco ranch exposes systemic failures in investigations and raises questions about corruption and organized crime ties.

A demonstrator places shoes at the Zocalo, Mexico City's main square, Saturday, March 15, 2025, as part of a vigil for victims whose skeletal remains were discovered at a ranch in Jalisco state. (AP Photo/Eduardo Verdugo)
Demonstrators light candles at the Zocalo, Mexico City's main square, Saturday, March 15, 2025, as they hold a vigil for victims whose skeletal remains were discovered at a ranch in Jalisco state. (AP Photo/Eduardo Verdugo)
Police stand guard outside the entrance to Izaguirre Ranch where skeletal remains were discovered in Teuchitlan, Jalisco state, Mexico, Thursday, March 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Alejandra Leyva)

Overview

  • Activist groups uncovered evidence of charred human remains, clothing, and cremation ovens at a ranch in Teuchitlan, Jalisco, on March 5, 2025, after authorities failed to detect these during a September 2024 search.
  • The Mexican Attorney General's Office has taken over the investigation, citing irregularities in the initial state-led probe, including unregistered evidence and links to local officials.
  • The Jalisco New Generation Cartel, suspected of using the site for forced recruitment and killings, has denied involvement in a video statement, while families of the disappeared continue to demand justice.
  • Mass protests and vigils have occurred nationwide, with international organizations like the UN and Human Rights Watch calling for independent and transparent investigations.
  • A local police chief was arrested on March 19, 2025, for alleged ties to organized crime, as federal authorities work to identify victims and determine the full extent of the crimes.