Environmentalist killed in Honduras

Honduran authorities have arrested two suspects in the murder of environmental activist Juan López, who was shot dead on September 14 after campaigning against open-pit iron ore mining. Security Minister Gustavo Sánchez confirmed that the arrests were made following an extensive investigation, which included reviewing over a hundred videos and seizing the motorcycle used in the attack. López, 46, had previously received death threats and was under protective measures from the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights. His assassination drew international condemnation, including statements from the U.S. State Department and President Xiomara Castro, who labeled the killing a 'vile murder.' López had been vocal against local corruption, demanding the resignation of Tocoa's mayor shortly before his death. The ongoing violence against environmentalists highlights Honduras's dangerous climate for conservationists, as noted by Global Witness and other human rights organizations.