Killed Because of Fake News on WhatsApp

How a viral rumour on WhatsApp led to the lynching of two innocent men in Mexico.

Ricardo Flores and his uncle Alberto were building a well. They set out to buy some supplies, but as it was a warm August day, they decided to take a break along the way. Within hours they were arrested and lynched – beaten and burnt to death by a ferocious mob. Rumours which spread on WhatsApp falsely accused the men of being child kidnappers. And before anyone could stop the residents of Acatlan, a small town in Mexico, a tragedy unfolded – the repercussions of which continue to be felt today.

For the Beyond Fake News season on the BBC World Service, Marcos Martinez went to Acatlan to investigate.

Presenter: Mike Wendling Reporter: Marcos Martinez Producer: Reha Kansara Studio Manager: Graham Puddifoot

Photo Caption: A photo of Ricardo Flores, one of the men who was killed. Photo Credit: BBC