An abandoned ranch in western Mexico previously suspected to be an 'extermination camp' was confirmed by Mexico’s Attorney General Alejandro Gertz as a training site for the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Despite initial claims of human cremations at the site, investigations found no evidence to support such activities, as studies showed no heat levels adequate for cremation. The ranch, located near Guadalajara, was used for recruitment and operations by the cartel, with testimonies and documents substantiating this. Criticism was directed at local authorities for their handling of the site, which was poorly secured after its discovery, leading to an investigation into potential official misconduct. Efforts continue to identify bone fragments and personal items found at the ranch to determine their origins and possible links to missing persons in Mexico.

Attorney General Alejandro Gertz declared the Izaguirre ranch a training and recruiting ground for the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, dismissing earlier claims of it being an extermination camp, as no evidence of human cremations was found.

Initial investigations showed very small bone fragments with no evidence of heat levels required for cremation, contradicting claims and testimonies regarding human remains at the site.

The ranch was identified as a major operational center for cartel activities, supported by testimonials and documents, but the exact number of individuals recruited or disappeared remains unknown.

Local authorities were criticized for irregularities and negligence in handling the site, as they failed to secure it after its discovery, leading to an abandonment until volunteer groups intervened.

Current investigations include determining the origins of personal items found at the ranch, with plans to use forensic tests to link them to missing persons, as the country grapples with over 120,000 missing people since 1962.

A total of 14 individuals, including local police officers and a cartel leader, have been detained in connection to the operations at the ranch, with potential charges for those covering up or participating in cartel activities.

The Attorney General’s office is expanding its investigation to other possible cartel-operated sites in the region, while emphasizing the ongoing nature of the investigation and the need for further forensic analysis.