MEXICO CITY - Veracruz Gov. Javier Duarte, under pressure for the number of journalist killings in the Gulf state, was interviewed by prosecutors Tuesday and once again denied involvement in the murders of five people in Mexico City, including a news photographer in self-exile because of threats in Veracruz.
Duarte gave up his immunity as governor and voluntarily gave a declaration in the death of journalist Ruben Espinosa, who had fled Veracruz in June after being intimidated and harassed. Mexico City prosecutors confirmed the declaration. Duarte has seen 13 journalists killed in the state since taking office in 2010. Three more have gone missing.
"I don't believe in special privileges, but I also don't believe in public lynchings," Duarte said in a statement, referring to the accusations. "They are far from having value, far from the truth and they cover up the real culprits."
The victims of the July 31 killings included Espinosa, who was found shot in the head, his body bound and tortured. The attackers also killed his friend, activist Nadia Vera, Colombian Mile Virginia Martin, a 19-year-old makeup artist, and a 40-year-old housekeeper.
One suspect has been arrested based on a fingerprint found in the apartment in a middle class neighbourhood of Mexico City.
Daniel Pacheco Gutierrez, 41, faces charges of murder, femicide and aggravated robbery in a gang, according to the city prosecutor.
