Most crimes against Mexico journalists, activists unpunished

A senior government human rights official says that 90% of crimes against activists and journalists go unpunished in Mexico

MEXICO CITY -- A senior government human rights official said Thursday that 90% of crimes against activists and journalists go unpunished in Mexico.

The assistant interior secretary in charge of human rights said that in those cases where the culprits have been identified, almost half are local officials.

Local officials in Mexico are often angered by corruption accusations against them, but in some cases they are also in league with criminal or business interests.

Alejandro Encinas said new laws are needed to protect activists and reporters.