On May 19, 2025, Ruth López, a well-known anti-corruption lawyer in El Salvador, was detained by the government, escalating fears among human rights activists. López, who directs the anti-corruption and justice unit at a prominent rights organization, was arrested without formal charges, and her whereabouts remain unclear. The attorney general's office linked her arrest to her past association with Eugenio Chicas, a former government official who is facing charges of illicit enrichment. Critics argue that President Nayib Bukele is tightening his grip on dissent, particularly after receiving support from former President Trump regarding illegal immigration policies. Human rights groups have condemned the arrest, viewing it as a significant threat to freedom of expression in El Salvador.
Prominent Anti-Corruption Lawyer Arrested in El Salvador
Prominent Anti-Corruption Lawyer Arrested in El Salvador
Ruth López, a leading anti-corruption figure in El Salvador, faces arrest amid rising tensions under President Bukele's regime.
Ruth López's detention has sparked alarm among human rights advocates, highlighting a troubling crackdown on dissent in El Salvador.
On May 19, 2025, Ruth López, a well-known anti-corruption lawyer in El Salvador, was detained by the government, escalating fears among human rights activists. López, who directs the anti-corruption and justice unit at a prominent rights organization, was arrested without formal charges, and her whereabouts remain unclear. The attorney general's office linked her arrest to her past association with Eugenio Chicas, a former government official who is facing charges of illicit enrichment. Critics argue that President Nayib Bukele is tightening his grip on dissent, particularly after receiving support from former President Trump regarding illegal immigration policies. Human rights groups have condemned the arrest, viewing it as a significant threat to freedom of expression in El Salvador.
