Mauricio was a Protestant Christian from Jinotepe in southwestern Nicaragua, just south of the country’s capital, Managua. From 2001, he was a member of La Roca Church where he served as a counsellor and as an usher.  

When ‘Operation Clean-Up’ began in July 2018, Mauricio opened his home to students seeking safety from violent paramilitary groups. Although he didn’t participate in the street blockades known as ‘tranques’, he supported nationwide efforts to protect young people from being murdered in the streets. This act of compassion left a lasting mark on many. 

Mauricio’s arrest was sudden, illegal and rushed. He was one of several people detained in raids that began on 17 July 2025, with the primary target thought to be Pastor Rudy Palacios Vargas, the founder of La Roca Church.  

Six of them were held incommunicado for over five months, including Mauricio’s adult son. Mauricio tragically died in detention, just 38 days after his arrest. 

From the day of his arrest to his death, his family had no news of his health or whereabouts. Mauricio’s imprisoned son was released on 10 January, and it was only then that he learnt of his father’s death. 

Mauricio Alonso Petri was a good Nicaraguan – not a criminal. He died in a Nicaraguan prison as a hero who gave his life for his country and the principles he held dear. We remember him.  

Pray 

• Give thanks for Mauricio’s life and all the ways he pursued justice and compassion for others. 
  
• Ask God to draw near to his family, who are now forbidden from attending church. He leaves behind a wife, a daughter and son, a young granddaughter, and a church family. 
  
• Pray for the immediate, unconditional release of everyone held unjustly in Nicaragua – including those held because of their beliefs. Pray for their protection amid the inhumane prison conditions.   
  

What was ‘Operation Clean-Up?’ 

‘Operation Clean-Up’ took place between June and July 2018, in different areas of Nicaragua. It was a violent attack planned by the government of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo to regain control of the country, especially its roads. 

Through excessive force, they set about suppressing the protests of students and civil society. The violence of the army, the police and paramilitary groups claimed more than 200 lives and caused hundreds of university students to flee the country.