Families of Mexico’s disappeared are searching for their loved ones, seeking answers from authorities. Ana Ameli, a 19-year-old biology student, disappeared during a hiking trip in the Ajusco mountain range. Her grandmother, Lucrecia Franco Pavón, is among thousands of relatives searching for missing loved ones across Mexico.

A National Crisis

Since the government declared war on drug cartels in 2006, the number of disappeared has reached 140,000 people. Families say authorities have not adequately acknowledged and acted, leaving them with nothing but grief, anger, and a deep sense of abandonment.

Madres Buscadoras, a collective of families, plans a mass protest outside Mexico City’s Banorte Stadium during the World Cup. The protest aims to draw attention to the plight of the disappeared and demand action from authorities.

International Scrutiny

The crisis has generated international condemnation. The UN Committee on Enforced Disappearances warned the government’s failures could amount to crimes against humanity.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.