Bolivian Journalists Intimidated While Exposing Smuggling in Desaguadero

Journalists Face Intimidation in Desaguadero While Exposing Smuggling Ring A Bolivian television news crew reporting near the border town of Desaguadero experienced a frightening incident on May 28, 2025. While documenting the smuggling of food and fuel, the team from Bolivia TV was surrounded by merchants who demanded they delete their footage. "Under strong pressure, they forced us to erase the material," stated a news anchor in a subsequent report. The attackers, mostly Peruvian nationals, acted aggressively, highlighting the significant threat to journalists working in such environments. The incident raises concerns about the safety of journalists and the challenges in reporting on sensitive issues in border regions. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with investigative journalism, particularly when covering sensitive topics such as smuggling in volatile border areas. The authorities are urged to investigate the incident and ensure the safety of journalists working to expose illegal activities.