
Mexican Mayor Arrested Over Suspected Cartel “Ranch of Horror” in Jalisco
- World News
- May 5, 2025
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Mexican Mayor Arrested Over Suspected Cartel “Ranch of Horror” in Jalisco
Report By Safarti Tarjuman International Desk
Authorities have arrested José Murguía Santiago, the mayor of Teuchitlán in western Mexico’s Jalisco state, over alleged links to a site believed to have been used by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) for criminal operations. The arrest comes amid a federal investigation into the Izaguirre Ranch, where charred human remains, shoes, and clothing were discovered in March by a local search group.
Located on the outskirts of Teuchitlán, the Izaguirre Ranch has been dubbed Mexico’s “ranch of horror” following the gruesome find. Federal prosecutors accuse Murguía Santiago of knowingly concealing the existence of the cartel-linked site and failing to take action. The mayor has denied any involvement, stating he had no connection to the property or the activities alleged to have occurred there.
The discovery was made by the Jalisco Search Warriors, a collective of citizens searching for missing loved ones. They described the location as an “extermination camp,” criticizing authorities for their failure to act sooner. The property was initially identified by federal soldiers in September, but critics say no significant investigation was launched until public pressure mounted.
Mexico’s Attorney-General Alejandro Gertz has downplayed claims that the site was used for mass killings or cremations, suggesting it was likely a cartel training facility. However, the Jalisco Search Warriors have rejected his assessment, insisting that evidence at the scene indicates a much darker purpose.