Authorities in Argentina have announced the arrest of a fifth suspect in connection with the brutal torture and murder of two young women and a teenage girl, a crime that has horrified the nation and sparked fresh protests against gender-based violence.
The victims, identified as 20-year-old cousins Morena Verdi and Brenda Del Castillo, along with 15-year-old Lara Gutierrez, were reported missing five days before their bodies were discovered buried in the yard of a house in a southern suburb of Buenos Aires on Wednesday, September 25.
Investigators say the killings were tied to narco activity and carried out as a chilling warning to others who might cross local gangs. In an even more disturbing detail, officials revealed that the attack was live-streamed on a private Instagram account and viewed by 45 people.
National Security Minister Patricia Bullrich confirmed that a fifth suspect had been detained, adding to the three men and two women already in custody. The latest arrest was made in Villazón, a Bolivian border city, after coordinated efforts between police forces in both countries. Authorities allege that the man provided logistical support to the gang by supplying a vehicle.
According to investigators, the victims were tricked into believing they were being taken to a party. Instead, they were lured into a van and subjected to what officials described as “punishment” for allegedly violating a gang code. One detainee reportedly told police about the existence of the video, which investigators then uncovered. In the footage, a gang leader is heard declaring: “This is what happens to those who steal drugs from me.”
Local media reports have detailed shocking acts of cruelty, including the victims being mutilated and suffocated before their deaths.
The case has fueled outrage in Argentina, a country already grappling with high levels of femicide. Activists have called for nationwide demonstrations over the weekend, with a large march planned in Buenos Aires to demand stronger protections for women and girls.
Meanwhile, Meta, the parent company of Instagram, disputed claims that the live-stream occurred on its platform. “We have not found any evidence of the livestream taking place on Instagram. Our team continues to cooperate with law enforcement as they investigate this horrific crime,” a spokesperson said in a statement to AFP.
On Friday, mourning processions accompanied Verdi and Del Castillo to a cemetery outside Buenos Aires for a private burial. Gutierrez was laid to rest at a different location.
The killings have left Argentina reeling, not only for their brutality but also for the audacity of broadcasting such violence online. Campaigners say the crime underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms to protect vulnerable communities and confront the pervasive influence of organized crime.
