B.C. Mining Company Reports Abduction of 10 in Mexico
A British Columbia mining company has reported the abduction of ten individuals from its project site in western Mexico. Vizsla Silver, based in Vancouver, confirmed the incident on January 24, stating that these individuals were taken from their site in Concordia, Sinaloa. The company noted that the situation is currently under investigation, and details remain sparse.
Details of the Abduction Incident
According to Vizsla Silver, local authorities have been notified regarding the abduction. The company’s crisis management and security teams are actively involved in addressing the situation. Activities around the Panuco Project site have been temporarily suspended as a precautionary measure.
Investigation and Response
The Sinaloa attorney general’s office confirmed that a 911 call from a Vizsla Silver legal representative initiated the response to the incident. Authorities, including the military, are collaborating to locate the abducted individuals. A search warrant was executed on January 23 as part of the ongoing investigation.
Concerns from Industry Representatives
The Association of Mining Engineers, Metallurgists, and Geologists of Mexico expressed urgent concern regarding the abduction. They called for immediate action to safeguard the workers’ return. Their statement emphasized that the ten kidnapped professionals had conducted their work diligently in Concordia.
Local Context and Safety Precautions
Local news sources indicated that the workers were taken from staff accommodations by armed men. Global Affairs Canada has issued warnings for travelers in the region, advising extreme caution due to violent clashes involving rival armed groups vying for control over drug trade activities.
Company Background and Community Engagement
Vizsla Silver is engaged in developing the Panuco silver and gold project. In a September 2023 promotional video, company representatives shared that they employ over 200 workers at this site, with approximately 70% sourced from local communities. Mike Pettingell, the company’s senior vice-president of business development, highlighted Vizsla’s aggressive exploration strategy in the silver industry.
- Company Name: Vizsla Silver
- Location: Concordia, Sinaloa, Mexico
- Number of Abducted Individuals: 10
- Date of Incident: Reported on January 24
- Employment at Panuco: Over 200 workers
The unfolding events highlight increasing concerns over safety within the mining industry in Mexico, underscoring the urgency for effective intervention by authorities to ensure the safe return of the abducted individuals.
