Missing American couple in Mexico City possibly identified among bodies in secret graves

U.S. citizens Guillermo Jafett Hidalgo Ortiz, 57, and Zafar Padamsee Mawani, 56, disappeared on 20 May from the Isidro Fabela neighbourhood of Mexico City after moving there from Chicago in October. Mexican Federal Police opened an investigation, and the U.S. Department of State coordinated with Mexican authorities.

On 17 June, security forces uncovered two shallow graves in the Valle del Silencio area of Ocoyoacac. The graves are believed to contain at least four victims, with investigators suspecting the missing couple may be among them. The bodies have not yet been formally identified. Local reports say up to three individuals have been detained and reportedly led investigators to the burial sites, though officials have not confirmed the detentions. The case remains open, with no arrests made.

The investigation has drawn attention in both Mexico and the United States, prompting missing‑person alerts and involvement from the U.S. Embassy.