Tragedy has struck as three employees from Vizsla Silver Corp were discovered dead in Mexico, just two weeks following their abduction from a work site. On Monday, Michael Konnert, the company’s President and CEO, confirmed that the families of the deceased had informed them of the heartbreaking news.
Company Statement
“We are devastated by this outcome and the tragic loss of life. Our deepest condolences are with our colleagues’ families, friends and co-workers, and the entire community of Concordia,” Konnert said in a statement. “Our focus remains on the safe recovery of those who remain missing and on supporting all affected families and our people during this incredibly difficult time.”
Identification of Victims
In an interview with the CBC, Jaime Castañeda revealed that he identified one of the victims as his brother, José Manuel Castañeda Hernández.
“In truth, this has been very painful to be here, in a place where we don’t want to be,” Castañeda shared. “It’s so hard to see … how they suffer. There’s no justice with what’s happening.”
Discovery of the Bodies
Two additional victims have been identified through family connections and reports from a state politician, according to CBC. The remains were located by federal authorities near a rural village known as El Verde, described by local media as a “mass grave.”
A total of ten employees from the Vancouver-based mining company were abducted on January 23 from a work site close to Concordia. The mass grave was discovered approximately 15 kilometers north of the city. Currently, it remains uncertain whether the bodies of the other missing employees have been located, as only three individuals have been positively identified thus far.
Family Responses
Castañeda mentioned having met with at least seven other families who gathered at the local federal attorney general’s office to help identify bodies collected from the site.
Possible Motives Behind the Kidnappings
Authorities suggest that these kidnappings are linked to an ongoing conflict among factions of the notorious Sinaloa Cartel. Omar Harfuch, Mexico’s Secretary of Security and Civilian Protection, has publicly indicated suspicion that a faction known as Los Chapitos may be responsible for these crimes.
Key Takeaways
- Three employees of Vizsla Silver Corp were found dead in Mexico after being kidnapped.
- The company expressed deep condolences to the families affected.
- Only three of the ten kidnapped employees have been identified so far.
- The remains were discovered near a rural village in a suspected mass grave.
- Authorities believe the kidnappings are connected to cartel violence.
FAQ
What happened to the Vizsla Silver Corp employees?
Three employees were found dead after being kidnapped a couple of weeks prior.
How many employees were kidnapped?
Ten employees were taken from a job site in January.
Who identified the victims?
Family members, including Jaime Castañeda, identified some of the victims.
What is the suspected motive behind the kidnappings?
The kidnappings are thought to be linked to conflicts involving the Sinaloa Cartel.
Where were the bodies found?
The bodies were located near a rural village called El Verde.
In summary, the tragic deaths of the Vizsla Silver Corp employees highlight the ongoing violence in the region. The company remains focused on the safe recovery of those still missing and is offering support to the affected families during this heartbreaking situation.
