Colombian Authorities Capture Alleged Mastermind Behind Peru Mine Murders

Authorities in Colombia have arrested Miguel Antonio Rodríguez Díaz, accused of orchestrating the murder of 13 kidnapped miners in Peru. This arrest highlights the rising violence linked to illegal mining activities in the region, prompting urgent governmental intervention.

Colombian law enforcement has successfully captured Miguel Antonio Rodríguez Díaz, reportedly the chief suspect in the chilling murder of 13 mine workers in Peru. Known by his nickname "Cuchillo" (Knife), Díaz was apprehended in Medellin during a targeted operation involving cooperation from both Colombian authorities and Interpol, as confirmed by Peru's Interior Ministry and the Colombian police force.

The tragic events that led to these allegations occurred on May 4, when the bodies of the miners were discovered within a tunnel at a gold mine located in the Pataz district of Peru. According to Peruvian officials, the victims had been dispatched to reclaim control of the mine after it was attacked and seized by an unauthorized group but faced ambush.

Díaz stands accused of orchestrating the incursion at the mine with intentions of theft, as outlined by Peru's interior ministry. The serious charges against him include "organised crime, aggravated kidnapping, and aggravated homicide." Following his arrest, a video released by the authorities shows Díaz being apprehended by armed police amidst the hustle and bustle of Medellin's city center.

Colombian police chief Carlos Triana stated that the arrest was made possible with the collaboration of the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency and was prompted by an Interpol red notice. The Peruvian government anticipates the extradition of Díaz in the coming days to face justice for his alleged crimes.

La Poderosa, the company overseeing the mine where the ochre events unfolded, has reported that a total of 39 individuals associated with the corporation have been killed in Pataz due to escalating violence from criminal organizations. This recent incident catalyzed a response from Peru's President Dina Boluarte, who enforced a nighttime curfew in Pataz and suspended mining operations for a month, delegating additional police and military presence to the region.