FLIP denounces threats against 4 journalists in Apartadó, Antioquia, and calls for urgent protection measures

Journalists in Colombia’s Urabá region have reported receiving threats from the Gulf Clan, a powerful drug trafficking organization known for its violent tactics. The National Prosecutor's Office has received two formal complaints alleging intimidation against two journalists working with local media outlets. The Colombian Foundation for Press Freedom (FLIP) was also informed of these incidents, underscoring growing concerns over the safety of press workers in the area. The victims are Cristián Andrés Salas Mosquera, editor-in-chief of Noticias el Boom, and Yeison David Rojas Toro, a reporter for Teleantioquia Noticias. Both were contacted by an individual claiming to be affiliated with the Gulf Clan. This person allegedly warned them to stop publishing stories regarding alleged corruption within the municipal administration of Apartadó. Specifically, the journalists had exposed irregularities involving Óscar Angulo, the secretary of Mobility. Rojas Toro appeared before the prosecutor’s office, stating that the individual warned him not to continue reporting on matters linked to the official. According to his testimony, the warning included pressure from the organization, which reportedly requested that he speak with all journalists who had published related articles. The journalist emphasized that the threat was direct and aimed at suppressing investigative journalism. This incident adds to a broader pattern of violence against journalists in Antioquia. Local authorities have expressed concern over the increasing risks faced by communicators and reporters. Recent reports highlight ongoing intimidation campaigns targeting media professionals, including threats issued by the same organization against Norbey Valle, a radio reporter with Caracol Radio, and the murder of Mateo Pérez, a journalist for El Confidente in Yarumal. Pérez was killed by members of the FARC dissidents, further illustrating the dangers associated with exposing corruption and organized crime. According to FLIP, between 2022 and May 2026, there have been 387 attacks on journalists nationwide, many carried out by armed groups. In Antioquia alone, 36 such incidents have occurred this year. These figures include the killing of Mateo Pérez Rueda, whose death has drawn attention to the urgent need for greater protection for journalists operating in conflict zones. The mother of Mateo Pérez spoke with Semana magazine, expressing her desire for a severe punishment following the arrest of the perpetrator, Víctor Chalá. Her comments reflect the emotional toll placed on families of journalists who fall victim to violence, while also highlighting the legal system’s role in addressing such crimes. The situation raises critical questions about the security environment for journalists in Colombia, particularly in regions affected by drug cartels and guerrilla groups. As the number of threats and attacks continues to rise, so too does the demand for stronger measures to protect freedom of expression and ensure the safety of those who report on sensitive issues. With more cases emerging, the government and civil society organizations must work together to address the root causes of this alarming trend.