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Journalist Fernando Vargas Robbed at Gunpoint During Live TV Link in Cuernavaca

Viral footage has intensified public concern about security for reporters in Morelos.

Overview

  • Fernando Vargas, director of media for Mexico’s LNBP, was forced out of his car and robbed at gunpoint while on a live transmission for Activo Deportes, in an incident recorded on video.
  • The robbery occurred Tuesday night, May 19, when an assailant opened Vargas’s car door, fired or cocked a weapon audibly and took his phone, wallet and the vehicle.
  • Studio colleagues and viewers watched the attack in real time as the program cut to commercial and the clip quickly spread across social media.
  • Minutes after the assault, elements of the Guardia Nacional assisted Vargas, he reported being safe, and he filed a formal complaint with local authorities.
  • As of the latest reports authorities in Cuernavaca and Morelos have not announced arrests or identified suspects, and social media users have circulated partial images of a suspect to urge police action.