A major break in the case as authorities target organized crime affecting Peru's mining sector.
**Main Suspect Arrested in Peruvian Gold Mine Murders**
**Main Suspect Arrested in Peruvian Gold Mine Murders**
Colombian police apprehend alleged killer of 13 kidnapped mine workers.
Police in Colombia have detained the key suspect in the heinous murder of 13 workers at a gold mine in Peru, marking a significant breakthrough in an ongoing investigation into organized crime. Authorities arrested Miguel Antonio Rodríguez Díaz, also known by his alias "Cuchillo," in Medellin through a combined operation involving Colombian law enforcement, Peru’s Ministry of the Interior, and Interpol.
The tragic incident occurred on May 4 when the bodies of the miners were found in a tunnel within the Pataz district, a region known for its lucrative gold production but also plagued by escalating violence linked to illegal mining activities. Mr. Díaz is accused of orchestrating the ambush of the workers, who were reportedly sent to reclaim control of the mine from assailants.
Despite the evidence, including accusations of organized crime and aggravated homicide, Mr. Díaz's lawyer has refuted claims of his client's involvement in the killings. The suspect was arrested following an Interpol red notice and assistance from the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, indicating the international dimensions of the manhunt.
Peru's Interior Ministry has indicated that they expect Mr. Díaz to be extradited imminently, highlighting the coordinated efforts among law enforcement agencies across borders. The incident has amplified concerns over safety in the Pataz region, prompting President Dina Boluarte to declare a night-time curfew and halt mining activities for a month, as criminal groups continue to threaten local operatives.
La Poderosa, the mining company at the center of this violent episode, has reported that the number of individuals linked to them murdered by criminal gangs in Pataz has now risen to 39, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced security measures in the area.
The tragic incident occurred on May 4 when the bodies of the miners were found in a tunnel within the Pataz district, a region known for its lucrative gold production but also plagued by escalating violence linked to illegal mining activities. Mr. Díaz is accused of orchestrating the ambush of the workers, who were reportedly sent to reclaim control of the mine from assailants.
Despite the evidence, including accusations of organized crime and aggravated homicide, Mr. Díaz's lawyer has refuted claims of his client's involvement in the killings. The suspect was arrested following an Interpol red notice and assistance from the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, indicating the international dimensions of the manhunt.
Peru's Interior Ministry has indicated that they expect Mr. Díaz to be extradited imminently, highlighting the coordinated efforts among law enforcement agencies across borders. The incident has amplified concerns over safety in the Pataz region, prompting President Dina Boluarte to declare a night-time curfew and halt mining activities for a month, as criminal groups continue to threaten local operatives.
La Poderosa, the mining company at the center of this violent episode, has reported that the number of individuals linked to them murdered by criminal gangs in Pataz has now risen to 39, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced security measures in the area.
