The journalist‘s children Sergio Gutierrezmurdered in Sonora in 2023reported the attack they suffered on Monday night outside their home in San Luis Rio Coloradoby elements of the Army.
Caleth Gutierrez He explained that they experienced moments of panic, when soldiers came to the door of his home, just as they were arriving from work, and subdued them while he opened the garage door.
The young man, communicator of Notiface Sonora, He reported that his brothers were attacked, even though they had the protection mechanism for journalists.
The soldiers said that they had acted like this because the car seemed suspicious to them, minutes before arriving at their home and that despite the fact that their uncle informed them that their nephews had protection, they continued to attack them, Caleth said.
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He told the communicator Azucena Uresti that due to the facts they will file a complaint, since it is not the first time they have been attacked.
🚨🚨🚨SLRC -Sonora-
“Due to suspects arriving at his house” 3 children of journalist Jesús Gutiérrez were subdued and beaten by soldiers
-22 year old son hit in the head
-Son of 19, blow to the abdominal regionThey entered the home without order and Habemus Video😎😎😎 pic.twitter.com/kZIA2EA7r6
— Eco_1_LVM (@Eco1_LVM) October 26, 2024
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Time.news Interview: The Consequences of Violence Against Journalists in Mexico
Editor: Welcome to Time.news. Today, we have with us Dr. Ana María Lopez, an expert in media freedom and the protection of journalists. We’re discussing a very serious and alarming incident involving the family of journalist Sergio Gutierrez, who was murdered in Sonora earlier this year. Ana, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Lopez: Thank you for having me. It’s important to shed light on the challenges journalists face, especially in high-risk areas.
Editor: Absolutely. So, let’s dive into the situation. Sergio Gutierrez’s children, particularly Caleth, reported a terrifying experience when soldiers confronted them outside their home in San Luis Rio Colorado. What do you make of this incident?
Dr. Lopez: It’s deeply concerning. This type of aggression from military personnel toward civilians—not only directly affects families of journalists but also sends a chilling message to the broader journalistic community. The Gutierrez family was already dealing with the tragic loss of their father, and now they are faced with additional trauma and fear.
Editor: Right. Caleth described moments of panic when soldiers arrived at their home. What impact does this kind of intimidation have on both the families of journalists and the profession as a whole?
Dr. Lopez: Intimidation can lead to self-censorship. If journalists and their families are not safe, they may think twice about reporting on sensitive issues, including corruption or violence, which are prevalent in many regions of Mexico. This erodes the role of the press as a watchdog and diminishes the transparency necessary for a healthy democracy.
Editor: That’s a significant point. The role of the media in a democracy is crucial. With the murder of Sergio Gutierrez and this recent incident involving his children, what are some systemic changes that you believe need to take place to ensure better protection for journalists?
Dr. Lopez: First and foremost, there needs to be a robust legal framework to protect journalists and their families. We also need to see better training for military and law enforcement on the importance of protecting press freedom. Furthermore, I strongly advocate for the establishment of emergency support systems for journalists facing threats, including better communication with authorities.
Editor: Those suggestions are vital. It’s also worth noting that the international community plays a role in supporting these changes, doesn’t it?
Dr. Lopez: Absolutely. International organizations can exert pressure on governments to comply with human rights standards and protect journalists. Additionally, solidarity from global media outlets can spotlight cases like the Gutierrez family’s and keep the conversation alive, ensuring that such incidents are not ignored.
Editor: Thank you, Ana. It’s been enlightening discussing this critical issue with you today. It certainly highlights the urgent need for action and awareness.
Dr. Lopez: Thank you for bringing attention to this issue. The safety of journalists is paramount, and discussions like this are essential for change.
Editor: We appreciate your insights. Let’s continue advocating for the protection of journalists and their families. Thank you to our audience for tuning in, and we hope you’ll join us again as we discuss more pressing issues in the world of current events.