U.S. citizen and partner found dead near Mexico City

U.S. citizen Zafar Padamese Mawani, 56, and his partner Guillermo Jafett Hidalgo Ortiz, also 56, disappeared in May while staying south of Mexico City. Mexican prosecutors, guided by information from detainees, recovered their bodies among four unidentified remains in the mountains east of La Marquesa National Park.

The family confirmed the deaths, thanking investigators and volunteer groups in both the United States and Mexico. The case highlights Mexico’s ongoing missing‑persons crisis, with more than 135,000 people reported missing nationwide. Recent protests by relatives’ groups have intensified as Mexico co‑hosts the FIFA World Cup, demanding faster action and more resources, especially when foreign nationals are involved.