Vancouver-based Vizsla Silver has confirmed that Mexican authorities have identified five of its 10 missing workers from the Panuco project in Concordia among recently discovered clandestine graves, reported CBS News.
On January 28, Vizsla reported the abduction of 10 people from its facilities. It said it had alerted authorities, and its crisis management and security response teams were involved in the search.
“We are devastated by this outcome and the tragic loss of life,” said Vizsla President and CEO Michael Konnert. “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.”
CBS News noted that Mexican mines have been the target of organized crime, as cartels see opportunities to extort or even sell valuable ore themselves.
Mexican authorities confirmed the arrests of four people believed to be tied to the abductions. “Everything is under inverstigation,” affirmed Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.