383 Uncremated Bodies Found at Ciudad Juárez Plenitud Crematorium; Owner Charged, UN Demands Investigation

Authorities in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico, uncovered a private crematorium named Plenitud where 383 embalmed bodies were found piled up in deplorable conditions, some dating back to 2020. The discovery followed reports from neighbors about foul odors and an anonymous tip. Investigations revealed that the crematorium did not cremate the bodies as contracted; instead, families were given fake ashes consisting of materials like sand and small stones. The facility served six local funeral homes and operated irregularly without proper municipal permits.

The bodies were stored improperly for up to four years, raising concerns about sanitary violations and potential fraud by the involved funeral services. The Chihuahua Attorney General's Office confirmed the identification of 27 bodies so far, including some with hospital bracelets. Two individuals, the owner José Luis A. C. and an employee Facundo M. R., have been charged with health law violations and crimes related to the mishandling of human remains. The scandal has caused distress among hundreds of families seeking to identify their loved ones and demanding justice. The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights called for an exhaustive and independent investigation into the case. Authorities have suspended activities of five related funeral homes and are continuing forensic examinations to identify the remaining bodies. The discovery has highlighted failures in oversight and regulatory enforcement in the region's funeral industry.