Diego Rosales, a Salvadoran journalist known for his work with Zuma Press, El Faro, and The Guardian, was detained in Seville on January 2 while attending an asylum interview. Having lived in Spain for two months, he claims that his detention is part of a political reprisal from the Salvadoran government due to his journalistic activities, notably reporting on the challenges faced by the public health system in El Salvador. His detention follows a troubling trend of increased repression against journalists in the country.

The National Court of Spain has ordered his release, but the Salvadoran government has until February 12 to request his extradition on charges related to bitcoin trafficking. The situation raises significant concerns regarding the treatment of journalists from El Salvador, as Rosales has alleged that the charges against him and his family are a direct result of their media work. His stepfather is also a journalist, indicating a family history of facing governmental oppression due to their profession.

This case highlights broader issues of press freedom in El Salvador under President Nayib Bukele's administration, which has been criticized for its increasingly authoritarian measures against dissent, including targeting journalists and activists. The international community is watching closely, as Rosales' case emphasizes the perilous environment for media professionals in El Salvador and raises questions about Spain's role in providing refuge for those escaping political repression.