A black gate adorned with two rearing white horses has become a grim symbol of death in Mexico, as families gathered outside an alleged cartel killing site in Jalisco, hoping to find traces of their missing loved ones. The site dubbed the “ranch of horror,” was discovered earlier this month by activist search groups, who uncovered bone fragments, ashes, makeshift crematoriums, and personal belongings, raising fears that the property was used for systematic killings. Federal authorities have taken over the investigation after state officials were accused of mishandling evidence.
Among those searching was Irma González, who recognized a blue backpack and sweatshirt belonging to her son, missing since 2021. “These things at least give me peace of mind that if my son died here, I won’t search anymore,” she said. However, she also revealed that she had received threats warning her to remain silent. The Jalisco New Generation Cartel, suspected of operating the site, has pushed back against claims, accusing search groups of exaggerating the horror for publicity.
The case has intensified pressure on President Claudia Sheinbaum, who took office last October, to take a stronger stance against cartel violence. With over 124,000 people missing in Mexico, frustration and anger have mounted among families demanding justice. “I have found a lot of pain, a lot of tears … but I haven’t found my husband,” one woman cried, as she waited for answers outside the ranch, where authorities continue to search for evidence of mass killings.
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