politics
May 7, 2026
This is Mateo Pérez, the journalist who was allegedly murdered in Northern Antioquia
Although the mother and father of journalist Mateo Pérez hold onto the last hope that he is still alive, all indications point to him having been murdered by FARC dissidents in the rural area of Briceño, in northern Antioquia.
TL;DR
- Journalist Mateo Pérez, 25, director of 'El Confidente de Yarumal', is presumed dead, likely murdered by FARC dissidents in Briceño, Antioquia.
- Pérez traveled to Briceño to report on armed conflict between FARC dissidents and the Colombian Army, ignoring official warnings about the danger.
- He was allegedly intercepted, mistreated, and tortured in the rural area of Palmichal, with witnesses reporting his murder and burial in a remote location.
- His family is in contact with the CICR to recover his body, as authorities cannot access the area.
- The Gobernación de Antioquia has offered a reward for information leading to the capture of alias Victor Chalá, a FARC dissident leader.
- Pérez was known for his immersive journalism, investigative reporting on public resource management, and reporting on local violence.
- He had previously received threats and reported them to the Foundation for Press Freedom.
- His father had warned him about the dangers of traveling to the area, but Pérez assured him it would be safe.