Background and Context
Ciro Gómez Leyva, a 66-year-old Mexican journalist, hosts a news program on Radio Fórmula. On December 15, 2022, he survived an assassination attempt by two drug trafficking hitmen who shot at him while he was traveling in a bulletproof vehicle to his residence in Mexico City.
This incident is one of the most high-profile cases amidst the escalating violence against Mexican journalists, with over 150 reporters killed since 1994. The attack on Gómez Leyva was reportedly ordered by the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), Nemesio Oseguera, alias “El Mencho,” one of the most wanted drug traffickers by the United States, who offers a $15 million reward for his capture.
Legal Proceedings and Sentences
The Fiscal General de la República (FGR) announced on Monday that a judge sentenced two of the hitmen to 11 years in prison for their involvement in the attempted murder of Gómez Leyva. In total, eleven individuals have been convicted for various prison sentences related to this attack.
The FGR’s statement confirmed the full responsibility of these individuals for “attempted qualified homicide and criminal association.” The identities of the convicted have not been disclosed to protect their legal rights.
Impact on Journalism and Media Landscape
Many journalists targeted by violence share commonalities, such as working in crime-ridden areas and publishing content through small media outlets or social networks, often under precarious working conditions.
Gómez Leyva’s survival highlights the risks journalists face in Mexico, where crime organizations exert significant influence. His case has drawn attention to the need for improved safety measures and legal protections for journalists in the country.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Ciro Gómez Leyva? Ciro Gómez Leyva is a 66-year-old Mexican journalist who hosts a news program on Radio Fórmula.
- What happened in the assassination attempt? On December 15, 2022, Gómez Leyva survived an attack by two drug trafficking hitmen who shot at him while he was traveling in a bulletproof vehicle to his residence in Mexico City.
- Who ordered the attack? The attack was reportedly ordered by Nemesio Oseguera, alias “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
- How many people have been convicted for the attack? Eleven individuals, including the two hitmen sentenced to 11 years in prison, have been convicted for their involvement in the attempted murder of Gómez Leyva.
- Why is this case significant for journalism in Mexico? This case highlights the risks faced by journalists in Mexico, where crime organizations have significant influence. It underscores the need for improved safety measures and legal protections for journalists in the country.
