An anesthesiologist, Harley Diana Mojica Gaitán, now faces trial over charges of causing serious injuries after she intervened in a fight at a fritanga (fried food) stand in Managua, Nicaragua. The incident occurred in December 2025, when Harley was working as a cook at the stand.
Background of the Case
According to local reports, the fight began when a man identified as Germán Antonio Urbina Salguera was accused of becoming aggressive and attacking several female workers at the stand. Harley's lawyer, Yader Rojas, stated that the man "began hitting and attacking female employees" before Harley was called to help.
Harley, who has skills in self-defense, is said to have acted to neutralize the man to stop the attack. However, her actions led to her being charged with causing serious injury, with Urbina Salguera named as the victim in this case.
Defense Argument
Lawyer Rojas emphasized that Harley did not intend to harm anyone, but rather acted to protect other women who were being attacked. "She was called to help because she knew self-defense, and she only neutralized the man who had already attacked other women," said Rojas. The lawyer also added that the original conflict stemmed from a family dispute regarding the ownership of the business where Harley worked.
Family Statement
Harley's mother, Magaly Gaitán, told the media that her son acted out of fear of losing her job. According to Magaly, Harley's employer called her to intervene because Urbina Salguera was choking one of the employer's relatives. "She just followed the employer's instructions to help, because otherwise she might have been fired," explained Magaly.
The family also claims that all witnesses in the case consist of the same family members, raising questions about the independence and fairness of the trial process.
Arrest and Trial
Harley was arrested on June 2, 2026, almost six months after the incident. Her trial is scheduled for August 3, 2026, where she will face charges in court. Lawyers and family hope justice can be served, considering Harley acted to protect others.
This case has sparked a debate about the limits of self-defense and the involvement of ordinary people in violent situations, especially when it involves women who are attacked. Local legal observers state that this case may become an important precedent for the interpretation of laws related to "defending others" in Nicaragua.
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*Original source: [vostv.com.ni](https://www.vostv.com.ni/nacionales/49941-anestesiologa-enfrenta-juicio-por-intervenir-en-di/)*