Activist Raúl Meza Abonce Released from Prison in Michoacán, Mexico

Raúl Meza Abonce, a young activist who had been held in preventive prison since November 2, 2025, was released on Saturday, December 27, 2025, from the 'Lic. David Franco Rodríguez' prison, also known as Mil Cumbres, in Michoacán, Mexico. His release follows a judicial resolution that modified the precautionary measures previously imposed, allowing him to continue his legal process in freedom. Meza Abonce remains linked to a process for alleged crimes of sabotage and damages.

Detention Amidst Protests for Justice

Meza Abonce's detention occurred during protests held in Morelia on November 2, 2025. These demonstrations were organized to demand justice for the assassination of Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan, who was killed just one day prior, on November 1, 2025. During the protests, damages were reported at the state Government Palace. Initially, Meza Abonce and seven other young individuals were detained, but he was the only one who remained in preventive prison until his recent release.

The Assassination of Mayor Carlos Manzo

Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan, Michoacán, was assassinated on November 1, 2025, during a Day of the Dead festival in the city. Manzo was widely known for his outspoken stance against organized crime and his critical views on security policies in Mexico. His assassination sparked widespread outrage and led to the protests in which Meza Abonce participated. The alleged assassin was later identified as Víctor Manuel Ubaldo Vidales, a 17-year-old.

Ongoing Legal Process and Allegations

Despite his release, Raúl Meza Abonce will continue to face legal proceedings for the charges of sabotage and damages. His family and legal defense have consistently maintained that he is a 'political prisoner,' asserting that his participation in the protest was peaceful and driven by indignation. They highlight his personal experiences with violence, including the assassination of his brother, the feminicide of his brother's partner, and a kidnapping, as motivations for his activism. Furthermore, his defense has alleged that Meza Abonce was subjected to beating and torture during his detention, leading to the filing of a complaint with the Attorney General's Office. His family has also expressed willingness to cover the costs of any material damages incurred during the protest.