Phoenix 24
The complaint alleges threats, abuse of authority and interference with journalistic work.
Los Mochis, Sinaloa | July 2026
Julio César Martínez Muñoz, president of the Organization of United Communicators of Sinaloa, and journalist Fabián Galicia filed a formal complaint before the Northern Regional Deputy Prosecutor’s Office against Topolobampo Municipal Trustee Joel Ulises Pinzón Velázquez.
The journalists appeared before the authorities on Saturday morning accompanied by members of OCUS and the organization’s Legal Support Commission, led by journalist and attorney Marcial Pompa Guillén.
According to the complainants, the reported conduct may involve threats, defamatory statements, abuse of authority and actions allegedly intended to obstruct or intimidate them in connection with their professional journalistic activities.
Martínez Muñoz, who also serves as director of Noticentro and Sistema Noticioso del Noroeste, stated that Pinzón Velázquez had publicly referred to the journalists on his personal social media accounts using expressions equivalent to “paid journalists” and “sellouts.”
He further alleged that the municipal official had threatened to have the digital platforms operated by the journalists taken down, a situation that raised concern among OCUS members and ultimately led to the filing of the formal complaint.
Martínez Muñoz also stated that Pinzón Velázquez has maintained an active public role within the “Aquí No” movement, which opposes the installation of an ammonia plant in the port of Topolobampo, while continuing to hold his position as municipal trustee.
He argued that any public official participating in political or social movements remains subject to public scrutiny and legitimate journalistic criticism, particularly when those activities involve matters of significant community interest.
The OCUS president additionally expressed concern regarding individuals who have accompanied the official during some of his activities, noting that their identities and roles within the movement have not been clearly established.
Journalists, colleagues and members of the Organization of United Communicators of Sinaloa attended the filing in support of the complainants and reaffirmed the importance of protecting freedom of expression and ensuring safe conditions for the practice of journalism.
The Northern Regional Deputy Prosecutor’s Office will now be responsible for reviewing the allegations, conducting the corresponding investigative procedures and determining whether sufficient evidence exists to establish any legal responsibility.
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