They find at least 24 bodies in a mass grave in Michoacán, Mexico

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(CNN) - The number of bodies recovered in a mass grave in the city of Comanja, Mexico, increased to 24 after an investigation led to a building believed to be a clandestine burial site, according to a statement issued Thursday by the Attorney General of the State of Michoacán.

The age of the bodies varies between 20 and 40 years, according to the statement, which adds that some were dismembered.

The Prosecutor's Office said that five of the victims were women. The remains will be taken to a medical forensic laboratory where further analysis will be performed.

The state of Michoacán, in western Mexico, has been the scene of bloodshed and violence while criminal groups fight for control of the territory.

In October last year, more than 30 armed individuals killed 13 Mexican police in an ambush.

With information from Natalie Gallón in Mexico City and Jackie Castillo in Atlanta.

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