No Evidence Found of Cremations at Ranch Tied to Cartel, Mexican AG Says

An abandoned ranch in western Mexico has been a focal point for groups searching for missing relatives, with claims it was an “extermination camp” due to burned remains and found personal items. However, Mexican Attorney General Alejandro Gertz announced on Tuesday that the ranch, located in Teuchitlán near Guadalajara, was actually a training and recruitment center for the notorious Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Gertz clarified that, despite earlier reports, there was no solid evidence verifying that human cremations occurred at the site.During a press conference presenting the investigation's findings, Gertz stated that while the ranch's role as a cartel hub was confirmed through testimonies and documents, “there is not a single piece of evidence to prove” that cremations took place there. His statements follow an initial recovery of tiny bone fragments that authorities found when they discovered the ranch in September. According to scientific studies conducted by a Mexico City university, heat levels at the ranch did not exceed 200 degrees Celsius, well below the necessary 800 degrees Celsius required for cremation.Previously, Gertz had mentioned that some human remains uncovered showed signs of cremation, leading to confusion among the public and media. In contrast, Mexico's security minister, Omar García Harfuch, indicated that the cartel may have resorted to execution for individuals who resisted training or attempted to escape, further complicating the narrative surrounding the ranch.The development sheds light on the complex issue of cartel violence in Mexico, showcasing the intricate web of crime, investigation, and public concern regarding the safety of the missing. As more information continues to emerge, the status and implications of the ranch remain a significant point of focus in ongoing efforts to address the crisis of disappearance in Mexico.