El Salvador: Unesco Condemns Journalist Murder, Demands Justice

The head of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) has condemned the murder of Salvadoran journalist Karla Turcios, whose body was identified earlier this week.

RELATED: 

Missing Salvadoran Journalist Found Dead

Audrey Azoulay, Unesco director general, said: "I condemn the murder of Karla Turcios... violence cannot go unpunished, because it threatens freedom of expression and public right to freedom of information.

"I am pleased that an investigation has been initiated into this case and I trust that the guilty parties will be taken to court."

Unesco reiterated its support for journalists, their safety and rights around the world and its dedication to raising global awareness through the United Nations Plan of Action on Safety of Journalists and the issue of impunity.

Tucios' remains were found on Saturday, but were initially unidentifiable due to the lack of evidence accompanying the body. The journalist was finally identified by her clothing, which her husband, Mario Huezo, recognized.

Strangulation marks were found, as well as two plastic bags tied around her head, though the death has not been attributed to her work as a journalist for La Prensa Grafica.

During the funeral ceremony Tuesday, her family and friends requested authorities find those responsible and solve the case quickly and efficiently: "Violence is taking away the best children," said Turcios' father, La Prensa Grafica reports.

In a tweet, Salvadoran President Sanchez Ceren said police are investigating the femicide and will "bring the perpetrators to justice as soon as possible."