Background and Relevance of the Situation
Rancho Izaguirre, located in Teuchitlán, Jalisco, has been identified as a significant criminal hub for recruitment, training, and operations of criminal groups since at least 2019. The Mexican Federal Attorney General’s Office (FGR) has confirmed this information, emphasizing the site’s role in criminal activities.
Advice from State Human Rights Commission
The State Commission on Human Rights of Jalisco (CEDHJ) had already alerted local authorities about illicit activities at Rancho Izaguirre since 2021. Their warnings preceded the FGR’s recent revelations.
Fiscal General Alejandro Gertz Manero’s Statements
Fiscal General Alejandro Gertz Manero stated that Rancho Izaguirre functioned as a criminal recruitment and operation center for at least three years. He explicitly denied the existence of an illegal cremation site on the property, citing analysis from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and temperature studies.
- Cremation Site Denial: Gertz Manero explained that temperature studies showed no heat levels exceeding 200 degrees Celsius, which is far below the required 800 degrees for cremation. Additionally, no complete skeletons or human remains were found.
- Evidence of Criminal Activity: The fiscal confirmed that testimonies, documents, and expert analysis prove Rancho Izaguirre was a criminal recruitment and operation center.
Judicialization of Cases and Ongoing Investigations
Since the 2024 federal and state forces operation, there have been 14 cases judicialized for organized crime, forced disappearance, and homicide. Corresponding arrest warrants have led to the detention of 14 individuals, with investigations still ongoing and potentially involving local authorities.
Findings from Rancho Izaguirre
Objects and clothing found by search groups in March 2024 were documented by the Guardia Nacional and state fiscalía in September 2024. However, by March 2025, these items were scattered across the property.
- Clothing Perusal: All clothing bags found are being individually examined and will be made available to families of missing persons, accompanied by the FGR’s human rights area. The goal is to ensure identification follows strict protocols that guarantee certainty and respect for the families.
- Continued Investigations: Gertz Manero emphasized that investigations will continue, and more arrest warrants will be executed as evidence solidifies.
Rancho La Vega Connection
Gertz Manero confirmed a clear link between Rancho La Vega and Rancho Izaguirre, both allegedly used by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) for operations and training centers.
The FGR is actively investigating Rancho La Vega, with experts, police, and public prosecutors gathering evidence on alleged criminal activities at the location.
Once sufficient proof is gathered, Gertz Manero plans to share the findings with the media.
