The Press Worker’s Union of Buenos Aires has condemned the threats and acts of intimidation against Luis Giménez, secretary-general of the Internal Commission of the News Agency TELAM. On 31 March 2000, the union reported that upon returning to his home in Avellaneda, Giménez was notified that unidentified individuals had been watching over the area […]
The Press Worker’s Union of Buenos Aires has condemned the threats and acts of intimidation against Luis Giménez, secretary-general of the Internal Commission of the News Agency TELAM.
On 31 March 2000, the union reported that upon returning to his home in Avellaneda, Giménez was notified that unidentified individuals had been watching over the area and taking photographs of his car’s licence plates and the outside of his house.
Giménez added that, upon reporting the incident to the Buenos Aires Police seventh precinct, the matter was investigated and federal police officers, who claimed to be undertaking investigative work, were identified as the suspects.
The labour organisation explained that Giménez had been receiving intimidating telephone calls and that on 30 March, he was again threatened over the phone by someone with a masculine voice, who identified himself as a member of the State Intelligence Secretariat (Secretária de Inteligencia de Estado, SIDE). Giménez was told that he would become a “second Cabezas” (see IFEX alerts). The person on the phone also referred to Giménez’s daily affairs, implying that he was aware of his movements.
The organisation reiterated its great concern over these incidents, which constitute a threat against press workers, and urged authorities to call for an immediate investigation.
Recommended Action
Send appeals to the president:
– calling for an immediate and transparent investigation of the matter
– asking him to provide protection for the journalist
Appeals To
APPEALS TO:
Fernando de La Rua
President of the Republic of Argentina
Fax: + 4 344 3879
Please copy appeals to the source if possible.
