Nine Years Later, Justice Still Eludes Javier Valdez’s Murder Case

May 15, 2026 – Mexico –

Press freedom organizations, journalists, and human rights advocates have renewed calls for justice on the ninth anniversary of the killing of Mexican journalist Javier Valdez Cárdenas, whose murder remains one of the most emblematic attacks on the press in Mexico’s recent history.

Valdez, co-founder of the investigative newspaper Ríodoce and a correspondent for La Jornada, was assassinated in broad daylight in Culiacán, Sinaloa, on May 15, 2017. He was widely recognized for his reporting on organized crime, narcotrafficking, violence, and the human impact of cartel activity in Mexico. His killing sparked international condemnation and became a symbol of the dangers faced by journalists reporting on criminal networks and corruption in the country.

To mark the anniversary, family members, fellow journalists, and advocacy organizations gathered in Culiacán to honor Valdez’s legacy and renew demands for accountability. Commemorative events were held near a memorial bust dedicated to the journalist, where participants called on Mexican authorities to advance efforts to extradite Dámaso López Serrano, known as “El Mini Lic,” who has been identified by investigators as the alleged intellectual author of the crime. López Serrano remains in the United States, where he has been involved in separate criminal proceedings.

Although several individuals connected to the murder have been convicted, press freedom groups argue that full justice has not been achieved, while the alleged mastermind has not faced trial in Mexico. Organizations, including the Committee to Protect Journalists, emphasized that impunity in attacks against journalists continues to threaten freedom of expression across the country.

Speakers at the anniversary events highlighted Valdez’s lasting influence on investigative journalism and his commitment to documenting the realities of violence affecting communities in Sinaloa. Advocates also warned that Mexico remains one of the most dangerous countries in the world for journalists, particularly for reporters covering organized crime and corruption.

Press freedom defenders continue urging Mexican authorities to strengthen protections for journalists and ensure that crimes against media workers are fully investigated and prosecuted. Supporters say the pursuit of justice in Valdez’s case remains closely tied to the broader struggle against impunity and violence targeting the press in Mexico.

Reference –

CPJ, press freedom organizations renew call for justice on 9th anniversary of journalist Javier Valdez Cárdenas’ murder