Hernán Bermúdez Requena declares innocence in letter from prison

Hernán Bermúdez Requena, the former Secretary of Public Security and Citizen Protection for Tabasco, has issued a letter from the Altiplano federal prison declaring his innocence regarding criminal charges. In the document, dated August 3, 2026, the 73-year-old former official denies being a founding leader of the criminal group ‘La Barredora’ and claims he is a victim of political and media persecution.

Bermúdez Requena questioned the validity of testimonies used against him, suggesting that some accusations may have been obtained in exchange for legal benefits or were “fabricated decisions by third parties.” He also criticized the media coverage of his case, stating his reputation has been damaged by outlets maintaining a single informative line since the allegations surfaced in September 2025.

The former official, who served under six governors in Tabasco, maintains that his career was conducted within legal frameworks and in coordination with federal forces. He has requested that his legal process be conducted under the principles of due process, the presumption of innocence, and procedural equality. Bermúdez Requena was detained in Paraguay in September 2025 and subsequently transferred to Mexico to face charges.