El Salvador jails rights activist Zavala for 15 years on fraud charges

A Salvadoran court has convicted human rights activist Fidel Zavala of fraud, sentencing him to 15 years in prison. Zavala is one of over 20 leaders from UNIDEHC, a rights organisation focused on documenting arbitrary arrests and torture allegations within the country's criminal justice system.

The arrests of UNIDEHC's leadership began in February of last year, marking a significant escalation in pressure against the activist group. The organisation has been vocal in its criticism of law enforcement practices, particularly concerning allegations of custodial torture and unlawful detention.

The timing and scope of the arrests have drawn international attention from human rights observers. UNIDEHC's work investigating alleged abuses in the detention system has positioned the group at odds with government authorities. The conviction of Zavala on fraud charges represents a setback for El Salvador's civil society organisations focused on accountability and transparency.

The case reflects broader concerns among international rights groups regarding restrictions on freedom of association and assembly in El Salvador. Observers have noted that such prosecutions of activists often occur through charges unrelated to their core advocacy work.