7News: Footage Shows Budna Abduction in Orange Walk

Surveillance footage aired by 7News appears to confirm that freelance journalist Joseph Budna was abducted in Orange Walk on August 22; the video shows him pursued, beaten, and carried away near the police station.

According to 7News’ September 3 newscast, the security video—though grainy and redacted by a confidential source—was verified for authenticity. It depicts Budna running from the Banquitas House of Culture towards the courthouse and police station, chased by a man and a Blue Equinox vehicle. He is later caught outside the town library, approximately 100 feet from the station.

The footage shows Budna being beaten for several minutes while shouting for help. 7News reported that a police officer briefly approached the scene but then withdrew after a short exchange with one of the aggressors, allowing the assault to continue. A civilian responder was also reportedly sent away.

Budna, wearing the same clothes as in his last live broadcast, was then lifted and carried off by his attackers in full public view. The vehicle used in the pursuit was later seen leaving the area.

7News stated that the recording provides compelling evidence that police were directly involved in what they describe as an abduction that led to Budna’s extrajudicial removal to Guatemala.

Authorities have not issued an official statement addressing the footage.