Bodies of Missing US Couple Found in Grave in Mexico

Mexican security forces have found the bodies of a U.S. couple who disappeared in May, discovering them in a clandestine grave in the central State of Mexico. The couple, identified as 57-year-old Guillermo Jaffet and 56-year-old Zafar Padamsee, were reported missing on May 20 after reportedly attending a meeting in Mexico City.

Local media reports, citing Public Ministry sources, indicate the remains were found during routine search operations in a wooded area of Ocoyoacac municipality, within the La Marquesa park. Both individuals reportedly held dual Mexican-U.S. nationality and resided in the State of Mexico. Their disappearance occurred when they were allegedly intercepted by unknown individuals.

While family members reportedly sought assistance from the U.S. Embassy in Mexico, neither the embassy nor Mexican authorities have issued official statements following the discovery. Law enforcement agencies, including the Attorney General's office, are investigating the incident to identify those responsible.

This finding highlights Mexico's severe crisis of disappearances, with official figures exceeding 130,000 cases nationwide. The State of Mexico is particularly affected, reporting the highest number of individuals who remain unaccounted for. The situation has drawn criticism of the state's response, with search collectives recently protesting during the opening match of the 2026 World Cup to raise awareness.