Journalist Assaulted After Exposing Puerto Aventuras Mayor

Puerto Aventuras, Quintana Roo — Alfonso Lara, director of the media outlet Informativo Puerto Aventuras, was violently assaulted and threatened with death in what appears to be retaliation for his critical reporting on Puerto Aventuras Mayor Gilberto Gómez and his nephew, Jorge Montalvo Gómez.

Brutal Attack Following Criticism

On Sunday, Lara was forcibly taken from his home by four individuals who transported him to a secluded location, where he was severely beaten. During the assault, his attackers reportedly shouted that the act was a punishment for being a “loudmouth” due to his critiques of the mayor and his nephew. They also issued death threats against Lara and his family, warning that this would be his “final warning.”

Following the attack, Lara sought refuge outside Puerto Aventuras, fearing for his safety and that of his loved ones. He later filed a formal complaint with the Quintana Roo State Attorney General’s Office in Playa del Carmen, explicitly naming Mayor Gilberto Gómez and Jorge Montalvo Gómez as the alleged instigators of the assault.

Calls for Justice and Press Freedom

The incident has sparked outrage among journalists and press freedom advocates, who are demanding a thorough and transparent investigation. Lara’s case underscores the dangers faced by reporters in Mexico, particularly those who challenge local authorities.

Journalist organizations have urged state and federal authorities to act swiftly to ensure accountability and prevent further attacks on freedom of expression, a cornerstone of democracy. The involvement of public officials in such acts of intimidation raises serious concerns about the safety of journalists and the erosion of press freedoms in the region.

Lara’s ordeal highlights the urgent need for stronger protections for journalists and stricter enforcement of laws against violence targeting the press. Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the investigation.

The State Attorney General’s Office has been called upon to prioritize the investigation and ensure that those responsible—including any government officials implicated—are held accountable.