Mexico: Journalists accused of identity crimes released

Journalists Eréndira Reyes and Alejandra Hermosillo have been released from the "La Pila" state detention center in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, after facing accusations related to identity crimes and the use of artificial intelligence. The Ministry of Interior confirmed its support for the journalists through its human rights and journalist protection mechanisms.

The ministry reiterated its commitment to protecting freedom of expression and journalistic work, emphasizing adherence to due process and the rule of law. This intervention follows concerns raised by national and international freedom of expression organizations. They reported an escalation of judicial persecution and arbitrary use of criminal law against journalists and critical voices in San Luis Potosí.

These organizations highlighted the potential misuse of specific articles in the San Luis Potosí Penal Code, which address digital identity manipulation and AI use. Their statement expressed worry that these investigations might stem from the dissemination of a video implicating organized crime figures with the governor and state police. The groups also cited irregularities in the arrests of Reyes and Hermosillo, including conflicting information about the charges and the imposition of preventive detention in a case involving digital expression.

“

The Ministry of the Interior reaffirms its commitment to the protection of freedom of expression and the journalistic profession, as well as to the promotion and defense of human rights, within the framework of respect for due process and the rule of law.