Arrest of Suspected Mastermind in Peru Mine Workers' Murders

The arrest of Miguel Antonio Rodríguez Díaz in Colombia brings hope for justice following the brutal murder of 13 miners in Peru. As illegal mining escalates, the region grapples with organized crime's grip.

Colombian police have apprehended Miguel Antonio Rodríguez Díaz, known by the alias "Cuchillo," who is believed to be the primary suspect in the murders of 13 kidnapped workers at a gold mine in Peru. His arrest took place in Medellin during a collaborative operation involving law enforcement from both countries and Interpol, as reported by Peru's interior ministry and Colombian officials.

The disturbing incident occurred on May 4th when the bodies of the miners were discovered in a tunnel located in the Pataz district of Peru. Reports indicate that the victims were attempting to confront individuals who had previously occupied their mine but were instead ambushed and taken hostage. A legal representative for Díaz has refuted allegations attributing the murders to him.

Peru ranks as one of Latin America’s leading gold producers but has been experiencing a significant escalation in violence orchestrated by illegal miners and organized crime syndicates. It is alleged that Díaz orchestrated an attack on the mine to steal gold, leading to his charges of organized crime, aggravated kidnapping, and homicide.

Authorities shared footage of Díaz's arrest, which occurred in a bustling area of Medellin, underscoring the sharp response to organized crime. Colombian police chief Carlos Triana noted the cooperation from the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement in locating the suspect, who is subject to an Interpol red notice.

The owners of the mine, La Poderosa, previously reported that criminal gangs have been responsible for the deaths of 39 individuals linked to their operations in Pataz. Following this latest tragedy, Peru's President Dina Boluarte responded by enforcing a nighttime curfew in Pataz and halting mining activities for a month, alongside deploying additional security forces in the area to combat the ongoing violence.