Mexico trial begins for men accused of killing Australian surfers

The trial has commenced in Ensenada, Mexico, for three men accused of the 2024 murders of Australian brothers Jake and Callum Robinson and their American friend, Jack Carter Rhoad. The defendants—Jesús Gerardo García (known as ‘El Kekas’), Irineo Francisco N., and Ángel Jesús N.—face charges including aggravated homicide and robbery.

Prosecutors allege the victims were killed during an attempted robbery of their pickup truck, which was later found burned. The bodies were discovered in a cliff-top shaft or well following their disappearance during a surfing trip in Baja California. A former partner of García, who admitted to instigating the robbery to steal the vehicle's tires, was previously sentenced to 20 years in prison.

During the proceedings, a judge ordered the defendants to be moved to a separate room after reports of witness intimidation. One witness, currently under protection, testified that they were threatened with death after witnessing the incident. The parents of the victims have traveled from Australia to attend the hearings, which are expected to last several weeks.