**Colombian Authorities Capture Key Suspect Linked to Peru Mine Murders**

**The arrest of Miguel Antonio Rodríguez Díaz spotlights the ongoing violence in Peru's gold mining sector amid escalating crime from illegal operations.**

Colombian police have apprehended Miguel Antonio Rodríguez Díaz, an individual believed to be the primary suspect in the gruesome murder of 13 miners in Peru. Known by the nickname "Cuchillo" (knife), Díaz was arrested in Medellin as part of a cooperative operation involving law enforcement from both nations and Interpol, as confirmed by Peru's Ministry of the Interior and Colombian authorities.

The tragic incident took place back on May 4, when the bodies of the abducted workers were discovered within a tunnel at a gold mine located in Pataz district, Peru. An attorney representing Mr. Díaz has denied any wrongdoing in relation to the killings. The spike in violence in Peru’s gold mining sector is often attributed to the influence of illegal miners and organized criminal enterprises operating with impunity.

According to Peruvian law enforcement, the miners were ambushed while attempting to retake control of the mine from aggressors who had previously invaded and taken it over. It is alleged that Díaz orchestrated the assault on the mine's entrance with the intent of illegally appropriating gold produced by the miners.

Charges against him include organized crime, aggravated kidnapping, and aggravated homicide. A video released by authorities depicted armed police detaining him in a crowded area of Medellin. Colombian police chief Carlos Triana noted that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement provided crucial support in locating Díaz, who was also subject to an Interpol red notice.

Following the violent events, Peru's Ministry of the Interior announced anticipated extradition proceedings for Díaz. La Poderosa, the mining company that owns the contested site, has reported that a total of 39 individuals affiliated with the company have fallen victim to attacks by criminal groups in the Pataz region. In response to the deteriorating security situation, President Dina Boluarte of Peru has enacted a nighttime curfew in Pataz and suspended mining operations for one month while reinforcing police and military presence in the area.