Miguel Ángel Beltrán, a 60-year-old journalist known for his coverage of organized crime in Durango, Mexico, was found dead on Saturday, October 25, 2025. His body was discovered wrapped in a blanket along the Durango-Mazatlán highway, a region notorious for cartel activity. A threatening note was found with the body, reading: “For spreading false accusations against the people of Durango,” a message believed to be from criminal groups targeting journalists.
Beltrán had transitioned from traditional print journalism to digital platforms, using TikTok and Facebook to report on cartel activities and local crime. In his final social media post, he warned of escalating violence following the arrest of a leader from the Cabrera Sarabia gang, a rival faction to the Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation cartels. His reporting highlighted the growing tensions and the potential for increased conflict in the region.
The journalist’s death underscores the perilous environment for media professionals in Mexico, where reporting on organized crime often leads to threats and violence. According to organizations like Reporters Without Borders, Mexico remains one of the most dangerous countries for journalists, with numerous cases of unsolved murders and widespread impunity. Beltrán’s murder adds to the growing list of journalists targeted for their work in exposing criminal activities.
Authorities have initiated an investigation into Beltrán’s death, but as of now, no suspects have been publicly identified. The case has drawn international attention, with calls for justice and greater protection for journalists in Mexico. The murder serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by media workers in regions controlled by powerful criminal organizations.
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