In a grim development, Mexican authorities announced on Tuesday that the human remains discovered in sacks in a ravine in the western state of Jalisco last week have been identified as the remains of eight call center workers who were reported missing. The victims, consisting of two women and six men, all in their 30s, had been reported missing since around May 20.
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Unveiling a Disturbing Scene in Zapopan
The remains of the missing workers were found in 45 bags at the bottom of a 120-foot ravine in Zapopan, a suburb of Guadalajara. Forensic evidence has confirmed the identities of the victims, but authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of their deaths.
Suspected Connection to Telephone Scams
Investigations revealed that the missing individuals were employed at an illegal call center in Zapopan, suspected of being involved in telephone scams. While initial reports focused on the search for two women and five men, another employee was later reported missing, linking all of them to the same call center.
Criticism of Authorities and Delayed Investigations
Relatives of the missing workers have criticized the authorities for their perceived slow response in locating their loved ones and thoroughly investigating the call center. This criticism highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in tackling organized crime and addressing disappearances effectively.
Organized Crime and Violence in Mexico
The state of Jalisco has seen an increase in the discovery of human remains in bags or unmarked graves in recent years. This area is known for the presence of the Jalisco New Generation cartel, one of Mexico’s most powerful criminal organizations involved in various illegal activities, including drug trafficking, extortion, and kidnapping.
Broader Context of Organized Crime
Mexican crime syndicates have diversified their operations beyond drug trafficking. Many criminal groups, including the Jalisco New Generation cartel, engage in petrol theft, extortion, people smuggling, and kidnapping. These syndicates often have ties to corrupt politicians and security forces, making law enforcement efforts more challenging.
Tragic Toll: Mexico’s Struggle with Violent Crime
Mexico has long grappled with high levels of violent crime. A controversial military anti-drug offensive initiated in 2006 has not been successful in containing the situation. Since its launch, the country has witnessed over 340,000 murders and approximately 100,000 disappearances, with the majority attributed to criminal organizations.
