In Puerto Rico, the discovery of five men’s bodies, bearing signs of torture and found unclothed, has initiated a significant investigation into a suspected murder case. Three of the bodies were located near a church in Carolina, east of San Juan, while two others were discovered in similar circumstances in Santurce, San Juan. Authorities are considering a potential link to drug trafficking in these tragic deaths.
Law enforcement officials have noted that all five bodies exhibit similar markings, hinting at a possible connection to drug-related activities. Although initial assessments point towards drug trafficking involvement, Police superintendent Joseph Gonzalez emphasized the importance of exploring all possible angles in the investigation.
While one victim has been identified as an 18-year-old man, the identities of the other four individuals remain unknown. Reports indicate that two victims had their hands bound, two had gunshot wounds, and one had a severed finger. Gonzalez highlighted the similarities in the cases, noting the victims’ state of being unclothed and tortured.
Authorities suspect that the bodies found in Carolina were likely killed elsewhere, as they showed signs of being transported with traces of sand and dirt. Gonzalez mentioned the presence of indications suggesting that the victims were dragged, with shell casings found near the bodies in San Juan. Such brutal violence is considered uncommon in Puerto Rico, leading law enforcement to intensify efforts to solve the case.
Mabel Olivera, director of the Criminal Investigation Unit (CIC) in Carolina, emphasized the comprehensive nature of the ongoing investigation, with no leads being excluded. Edwin Figueroa, director of the CIC in San Juan, highlighted the similarities between the bodies found in both areas and the collaborative effort involving various police divisions to identify the victims and progress the investigation.
Puerto Rico, serving historically as a transit point for narcotics destined for the US and global markets, has witnessed a high number of killings this year. With a population of 3.2 million people, the island reported 344 homicides, a decrease from the previous year’s figure at the same period.