Enrique Martínez

Additional Name(s): Enrique Martínez Gamboa, Benito Enrique Martínez

Gender: Male

Perpetrator: Nicaragua

Religion or Belief: Christian – Catholic

Health Concerns: Diabetes, hypertension, kidney problems, blood circulation problems

Reports of Torture: No

Reports of Medical Neglect: No

Date of Detainment: October/13/2022

Date of Release: February/9/2023

Current Status: Released

Religious Leader: Yes

Most Recent Type of Abuse: Detainment

Reason for Persecution: Criticizing Religious Freedom Conditions Human Rights Work for Religious Communities Religious Figure & Religious Leadership Role

Nature of Charges: Criminal Premeditation & Conspiracy Spreading Propaganda & False or Misleading Ideas, Information, or Materials

Enrique Martínez

Extra Bio Info:

Enrique Martínez was detained for his religious leadership role.

On October 13, 2022, authorities reportedly violently arrested Martínez, the parish priest of St. Martha’s Church in Managua, at his home. Riot police reportedly entered his home forcibly, broke down the door to his room, beat him, and pushed him into a van. Martínez was reportedly charged with conspiracy and propagating false news. Martínez's arrest came amid a crackdown of fellow clergymen criticizing the government for its human rights violations, including religious freedom.

On February 9, 2023, Martínez was released from prison and exiled to the United States.

Martínez reportedly suffers from diabetes, hypertension, kidney problems, and blood circulation problems.

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