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Nestora Salgado Released

After spending 31 months behind bars, Nestora Salgado, commander of the Community Police in Olinalá, Guerrero, was released from the Santa Martha Women’s Prison in Tepepan, Mexico City at 9:47 this morning.

Salgado’s first words upon leaving the prison were “soy libre” (I am free).

She was greeted by around a hundred people, including family, friends, activists and members of the Community Police, who had travelled from Guerrero to welcome their commander.

As she left the prison, members of the Community Police simulated breaking her handcuffs in a symbolic action.

In a short speech, she promised that she will continue her struggle to guarantee security for the people and denied having involvement with political campaigns. She made clear that she has no relationships with the Party of the Democratic Revolution (PRD) nor with the National Regeneration Movement (Morena).

After making a short speech and greeting members of the community police, she went to the Miguel Agustin Pro Human Rights Center, where she will give a press conference.

Last night, officials at the Santa Martha prison were informed of an order for Salgado’s release. The ruling had been made by three judges, who determined that there was insufficient evidence to prosecute Salgado for the crimes of homicide and kidnapping.

Salgado was arrested on Aug. 21, 2013.

Video: CAPITAL MEDIA/Jesús Velázquez.

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