Honduran Environmental Activist Juan Lopez Shot Dead in Tocoa

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Juan Lopez, a 46-year-old environmental activist, was fatally shot in Tocoa, Honduras, after leaving church on Saturday. Lopez was a member of the Municipal Committee for the Defense of Common and Public Goods and was involved in protests against mining activities aimed at protecting local rivers and forests.

Honduran President Xiomara Castro has called for a thorough investigation into the incident to identify those responsible. Lopez’s organization had previously faced threats, and three other members were killed in 2023. The group has been advocating for the preservation of the Guapinol and San Pedro rivers, as well as the Carlos Escaleras nature reserve, in response to the expansion of mining and hydroelectric projects in the area.

Attorney General Johel Zelaya stated that the case would be investigated and that justice would be pursued. Earlier in the year, Lopez expressed concerns about his safety, reporting that he had been followed by individuals on motorbikes near his home.

According to Global Witness, Honduras is among the most dangerous countries for environmental activists, with 18 deaths recorded in 2023.