Front Line is deeply concerned following reports of the killing of human rights defender Ricardo Murillo Monge, on 6 September 2007, in Culiacán city, Sinaloa. Ricardo Murillo Monge, along with his sister, founded the Frente Cívico Sinaloense (Sinaloa Civic Front), a non-governmental organisation which works for the promotion of community education in defending and promoting human rights. The organisation was also involved in denouncing cases of torture and human rights abuses allegedly carried out by the police and military.

Further information

On 6 September 2007, at approximately 1:00 in the afternoon, Ricardo Murillo Monge's body was found on the passenger seat of a vehicle that was parked outside a shopping centre in Culiacán, Sinaloa. According to reports, he died as a result of a bullet wound to the head. In June 2007, Ricardo Murillo Monge represented families of victims who had allegedly been killed by military soldiers at a barracks near Alamillos, in Culiacán.

Front Line believes that the killing of Ricardo Murillo Monge is directly related to his legitimate and peaceful work in defence of human rights in Mexico. Further concern is expressed for the security of the other members of the Frente Cívico Sinaloense (Sinaloa Civic Front).