Union leaders in Veracruz face kidnapping and harassment charges

Union leaders in southern Veracruz are facing legal proceedings for serious criminal allegations. Joel “N”, the general secretary of Section IV of the National Union of Workers of the Mexican Social Security Institute (SNTSS), has been formally linked to a process for the crime of sexual harassment.

The victim, Mónica A. C. G., alleged that the defendant used medical justifications to avoid attending hearings, causing emotional and economic strain. While the judicial ruling does not determine guilt, Joel “N” will remain free under court-ordered precautionary measures while a three-month complementary investigation is conducted.

Separately, Juan “N”, a leader from the Authentic Confederation of Workers and Employees of Mexico (CATEM) in Las Choapas, is being investigated for his alleged involvement in the kidnapping of a merchant that occurred in March 2024. Unlike Joel “N”, Juan “N” is currently a fugitive.