Mexico: Threat against Nuevo Laredo newspaper

Event

According to El Mañana newspaper based in Nuevo Laredo (Tamaulipas state), an “imminent” attack targeting its facilities and/or staff is possible. This news is reportedly based on intelligence provided by officials within the US government, shared with the newspaper on June 23. The Mexican federal government has opened an investigation into the threat, which could be a consequence of recent reporting by the newspaper on corruption within the local government, including nepotism, conflicts of interest, and improper use of public funds.

Context

Newspapers are frequently targeted by various crime groups in the country, often in conjunction with corrupt officials, with journalists assassinated on a regular basis (13 in Tamaulipas state alone since 2000). El Mañana was targeted in an incident in January 2017, in which three of its staff were assaulted and a company truck set ablaze. Armed men also opened fire on the newspaper’s headquarters in May 2012, causing no casualties. In 2006, a grenade was thrown into the offices, severely injuring one journalist.

On a related note, the Mexican federal government is currently embroiled in a scandal over allegations that the state has been spying on Mexican journalists and activists, a claim it has denied.

Advice

Individuals in Nuevo Laredo are advised to avoid the El Mañana offices as a precaution and to keep abreast of the situation.