CPJ alarmed by threats against Article 19 in Mexico

New York, April 22, 2013–The Committee to Protect Journalists is alarmed by a death threat sent to the Mexico office of the international freedom of expression organization Article 19.

“Mexican authorities must launch an exhaustive investigation into this threat and bring those responsible to justice,” said CPJ Senior Americas Program Coordinator Carlos Lauría. “The authorities have a responsibility to ensure that journalists and defenders of press freedom can work without fear for their safety.”

The group received a typewritten letter warning that Mexico director Darío Ramírez would be beaten “until his heart stops.” The organization has filed a complaint with authorities and the staff is now receiving protection from the federal government. Violence related to drugs or organized crime has made Mexico one of the world’s most dangerous countries for the press, according to CPJ research.