Release after 74 days
Mexican journalists Julio Ibáñez and Daniel García regained their freedom in South Africa. Both TUDN employees received their passports after a hearing in Johannesburg. They are expected to return to Mexico in the next few hours.
They were arrested on March 19 while reporting on South Africa, the Mexican team’s first rival in the World Cup. They spent five days in prison and then were under house arrest.
In a previous hearing, the judge dropped the most serious charges of terrorism and espionage. The Televisa company thanked the support of Mexican authorities, communication organizations and fans.
Reaction and context
On social networks, Ibáñez described the experience as a “nightmare” and thanked family, colleagues and lawyers. He pointed out that justice was served after 74 days away from his activities.
The South African authorities explained that the arrest was caused by the unauthorized flight of a drone over private property. The Mexican Embassy in South Africa provided consular assistance throughout the process.




