Journalist Marcelo Longobardi Alleges Intimidation by Former Security Minister Sergio Berni
Longobardi claims Berni used surveillance footage and intimidation tactics during the Cristina Kirchner administration.
1Public Allegations of Intimidation
Journalist Marcelo Longobardi revealed on a television program that he faced intimidation by former Security Minister Sergio Berni during Cristina Kirchner’s presidency. Longobardi described being summoned to a large office on Paseo Colón, where he was confronted by Berni and a large, threatening dog, leaving him feeling physically vulnerable.
2Surveillance Footage Displayed
During the meeting, Berni allegedly displayed a giant screen showing footage of Longobardi’s daily activities. The video documented his departure from Radio Mitre, a coffee meeting at the Hyatt Hotel, and his movements along Avenida Alvear. Berni specifically pointed out a red van used to record the journalist's movements.
3Tracking Daily Movements
The surveillance continued as Longobardi traveled to buy coffee on Quintana Street and drove toward the offices of businessman Jorge Fontevecchia. The footage captured him parking his car nearby, illustrating the extent of the monitoring. Longobardi stated he had not noticed the red van during his daily routine.
4Link to Physical Attack
Longobardi connected this surveillance to a violent October 2014 incident. While walking to Fontevecchia’s offices, two individuals on a motorcycle knocked him to the ground, beat him, and stole his watch on Ombú Street. He interpreted the meeting with Berni as a warning regarding this specific period of harassment.
5Accusations Against César Milani
Beyond Berni, Longobardi implicated César Milani, the former head of the Army and military intelligence. Forty-eight hours after the meeting with Berni, a government minister met Longobardi at a hotel lobby to deliver a brief message: 'It was Milani,' suggesting the intelligence chief orchestrated the operation against the journalist.
6Context of Intelligence Operations
The allegations highlight the intense climate of intelligence activities during the Kirchner administration. Writer Jorge Fernández Díaz, present during the broadcast, characterized the events as a war involving the state intelligence services. The account left fellow guests, including businessman Jorge Brito and physician Daniel López Rosetti, in complete silence.
7Power Dynamics and Surveillance
The incident underscores the psychological impact of being monitored by state officials. Longobardi described the experience of seeing his own life recorded by the 'Power' as deeply unsettling. After showing the footage, Berni reportedly ended the meeting with a polite greeting, leaving the journalist to interpret the encounter's true intent.
8Historical Political Implications
These claims revisit a period marked by friction between the government and media figures. By detailing the specific locations, vehicles, and the involvement of high-ranking military and security officials, Longobardi’s testimony provides a personal account of perceived state-sponsored intimidation, reflecting broader concerns about the use of intelligence structures against critics.